Security measures were implemented before the pontiff’s return to the Vatican. The media gathers in front of the hospital.
Pope Francis spent a third night at the Roman polyclinic “Agostino Gemelli”. The leader of the Catholic Church, who was being treated for bronchitis, is expected to leave the hospital late Saturday morning, the hospital said. Security measures were taken for the pontiff’s return to the Vatican. Dozens of TV crews waited in front of the hospital on Saturday to film the Pope’s departure from the hospital.
Pope Francis wants to preside over the mass in St. Peter’s Square on Palm Sunday tomorrow. On Friday, during his stay, he made a surprise visit to the children’s oncology department at Hospital Gemelli, where he is being treated. The pope brought chocolate Easter eggs, rosaries and books for the children, the Vatican said.
During the surprise visit, which lasted about 30 minutes, Francis also baptized a baby just a few weeks old. In photos distributed by the Vatican, the head of the Catholic Church can be seen smiling as he baptizes the boy with holy water.
Lead Mass on Palm Sunday?
According to the Vatican, on Palm Sunday, the beginning of Holy Week, Francis should already conduct the mass in St. Peter’s Square. He will remain seated during the Mass, while Argentine Cardinal Leonardo Sandri will perform the ceremony at the altar.
(APA)