CNA Newsroom, Feb 23, 2025 / 06:19 am

As Pope Francis continued his treatment at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital Sunday, he expressed gratitude to medical staff while marking the approaching third anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in a prepared Angelus message.

“On my part, I am confidently continuing my hospitalization at the Gemelli Hospital, carrying on with the necessary treatment; and rest is also part of the therapy!” the pontiff said Feb. 23.

The Holy Father thanked “the doctors and health workers of this hospital for the attention they are showing me and the dedication with which they carry out their service among the sick.”

Vatican sources confirmed that following a prolonged respiratory crisis on Saturday, the pope continues to require supplemental oxygen through nasal cannulas. The latest medical bulletin noted that he also received a blood transfusion to address platelet deficiency associated with anemia.

Despite his health challenges, Pope Francis spoke about current pastoral matters: He acknowledged the ordination of new permanent deacons at St. Peter’s Basilica, where Archbishop Rino Fisichella presided over the ceremony for the Jubilee of Deacons in the pope’s absence.

The pope had special words for the newly ordained deacons: “Dear brother deacons, you dedicate yourselves to the Word and to the service of charity; you carry out your ministry in the Church with words and deeds, bringing God’s love and mercy to everyone.”

Turning to global concerns, Francis marked Monday’s “painful and shameful occasion” of the third anniversary of the “large-scale war against Ukraine.” He renewed his solidarity with “the suffering Ukrainian people” and called for prayers for victims of armed conflicts worldwide, specifically mentioning Palestine, Israel, the Middle East, Myanmar, Kivu, and Sudan.

The pope also expressed appreciation for the many messages of support he has received, particularly noting letters and drawings from children.

“Thank you for this closeness and for the prayers of comfort I have received from all over the world!” he said, entrusting himself to the intercession of Mary.