The photograph is taken from behind, and shows Pope Francis wearing a purple Lenten liturgical vestment sitting in a wheelchair in front of an altar. The Vatican said he was participating in the celebration of the Mass with other priests. It is the first photograph of the pope since he was taken to hospital on February 14 with a severe case of bronchitis, which developed into double pneumonia. It is also the first time the Vatican mentions that the pope has participated in celebrating a Mass during the last month. His condition has been gradually improving over the last week, leading the Vatican to suspend morning updates and to issue less frequent medical bulletins.

Source: The Times March 16, 2025 19:24 UTC