Children Spread Joy Outside Gemelli Hospital as Pope Francis Recovers

In a touching display of affection, children outside the hospital lifted the spirits of Pope Francis, who is recovering from pneumonia, as they expressed solidarity and hope for his well-being.

Children gathered in the courtyard of Gemelli Hospital in Rome on Sunday, lifting colorful balloons representing the Vatican's yellow and white. The little ones chanted “Papa Francesco” and proclaimed “Viva la Pace” to express their support for Pope Francis, who has been hospitalized for pneumonia for over four weeks. Many artistic signs decorated with heartfelt messages were held aloft, with some children expressing their eager wish for the pontiff to acknowledge their presence from his hospital window. One enthusiastic boy, part of a lively group of young “beavers,” held a large placard stating, “Ciao Papa Cesco, I love you a lot.”

Though Pope Francis did not physically appear, he recognized the children’s vibrant display during his traditional Sunday blessing, which was once again not delivered live for the fifth consecutive week. The pope shared his gratitude for the children's prayers and affirmed, “Thank you, dearest children! The pope loves you and is always waiting to meet you.”

Organized by Rev. Enzo Fortunato, president of the Pontifical Committee for World Children’s Day, the gathering was described as a “symbolic medicine” for the pope, emphasizing the joy children bring into the world. Father Fortunato stated that the creative signs and letters from the children would be kept for the pope’s return to the Casa Santa Marta, with confidence that Francis would respond personally to their touching messages when he is able.