A Joyful Homecoming: Pope Francis Returns to the Vatican with Gratitude & Hope
After five weeks of healing at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, our beloved Pope Francis has been discharged, bringing with him waves of warmth, gratitude, and renewed hope! 
A Heartfelt Farewell to Gemelli Hospital
Before leaving, the Holy Father made sure to share his immense gratitude with the thousands who prayed for him during his recovery. From a hospital balcony, he waved to 3,000 well-wishers, his voice filled with tenderness as he thanked them:
“You have continued to pray for me with so much patience and perseverance: thank you so much! I also pray for you.” 
His words, shared on Instagram, radiated humility and love—a beautiful reminder of the power of faith and community.
A Gentle Road to Recovery
Though doctors say full recovery will take time (with two months of rest prescribed), Pope Francis wasted no time in returning to his spiritual home. On his way back to the Vatican, he made a surprise stop at St. Mary Major Basilica—a place close to his heart. 
Though he remained in the car, he handed a bouquet of flowers to Cardinal Rolandas Makrickas, asking him to place them before the icon of the Madonna. Even in moments of rest, his devotion shines brightly. 
A Call for Peace Amid Healing
Even while recovering, Pope Francis continues to be a voice for peace. On Sunday, he expressed deep sorrow over the resumption of bombings in Gaza, urging:
“I call for an immediate halt to the weapons and for the courage to resume dialogue… In the Gaza Strip, the humanitarian situation is again very serious.”
Yet, he also shared hope, celebrating the peace agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan, praying it brings lasting harmony to the region. 
A Community United in Prayer
Over the past five weeks, hundreds gathered outside the Vatican and Gemelli Hospital, lifting prayers for his healing. His discharge is not just a personal victory but a testament to the power of faith, love, and unity.
As he rests in the Vatican, we send him waves of light, love, and continued prayers for a peaceful recovery. 
