First photo of Pope Francis published in over four weeks

For the first time in more than four weeks, the Vatican has published a photo of Pope Francis. The picture shows the 88-year-old from the side, sitting in front of the altar in the chapel in the private wing of the Gemelli Clinic. Francis is wearing a purple priest's stole, he is sitting slightly slumped and his facial features are barely recognisable. No oxygen equipment or other medical paraphernalia can be seen either.

The Pope himself concelebrated mass in the chapel on Sunday morning, the Vatican press office announced on Sunday evening. It was not disclosed which or how many priests celebrated the service with him.

This is the first time that Francis has been seen in a photo since he was hospitalised more than a month ago. An audio message from the head of the Church was published on 6 March. In a fragile voice and in Spanish, the Pope thanked everyone for their prayers for his health.

Progress in a still complex clinical picture

On Sunday, Francis continued to receive oxygen during the day as well as physiotherapy for his respiratory organs and motor exercises. This treatment is doing the 88-year-old good; the progress of the past few days has been confirmed.

Franziskus has been in hospital since 14 February due to bilateral pneumonia, among other things. At times, his life was in danger. For around ten days, doctors have been talking about improvements in what remains a complex clinical picture. (KNA)