Pope Francis addressed his followers for the first time since his hospitalization via an audio recording, thanking them for their prayers. The 88-year-old leader of the Roman Catholic Church was admitted to the hospital last month with double pneumonia and experienced complications due to mucus buildup in his airways. His respiratory problems have been a recurring issue, and this hospitalization is his longest since becoming Pope. Despite his health issues, Francis remains committed to his duties, receiving ashes and Holy Communion in the hospital for Ash Wednesday. Cardinal Angelo De Donatis took his place at Vatican celebrations while he continued his recovery. The faithful gathered at the Vatican prayed the rosary as the recording of Francis played, expressing their support for him during this challenging time.
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