Pope Francis is back at the Vatican after a serious battle with double pneumonia that left him hospitalized for five weeks. Despite requiring a wheelchair for public appearances, the 87-year-old pontiff remains committed to his mission. His latest efforts include pushing for greater roles for women in the Church, strengthening financial transparency, and tackling clerical abuse scandals.
The Pope’s health has led to adjustments in his schedule, including the postponement of King Charles III and Queen Camilla’s planned visit to the Vatican. However, he remains active, recently approving decrees for three new saints, including Papua New Guinean martyr Peter To Rot. As the Catholic Church prepares for the 2025 Papal Jubilee, Francis continues to emphasize renewal and healing, encouraging the faithful to embrace Lent as a time of spiritual and physical restoration.