Pope Francis was officially discharged from the hospital on March 23 after receiving the treatment of the respiratory infection at Policlinic Gemelli, where he was hospitalized from February 14.
His return is a very important moment for the Catholic Church and its followers world wide.
In the official statement issued by Vatican News, the Pope expressed gratitude to medical and faithful staff who prayed for his recovery.
Health and leadership challenges
At the age of 88, Pope Francis experiences growing health problems, increasing the concerns concerning the way forward for his leadership within the Vatican.
Despite the undeniable fact that he was discharged from the hospital, the Pope still shows his commitment to fulfilling his duties as a pacesetter of Catholic faithful.
In his first public speech after leaving the hospital, he expressed gratitude to everyone who supported and prayed for him.
However, his variable health caused questions on the soundness of his leadership.
Thanks to the stroked schedule, including the audience and the Apostolic Travel, serious challenges are waiting for Pope Francis in maintaining his role as a part of his physical decline.
Also read: Catholic leaders from Indonesia and the Philippines appointed on cardinals by Pope Francis
Catholics and international community reactions
The health of Pope Francis caught global attention, giving him the role of a spiritual leader of over a billion Catholics world wide.
The reactions to his dismissal from the hospital were dominated by gratitude and hope for his fading.
Church leaders from various countries also sent their prayers and support to the Pope.
In addition, the international community notes how the Vatican will adapt its internal policies to support the increasingly limited physical possibilities of Pope Francis.
Some analysts suggest that passing certain duties to older cardinals could be a real solution ensuring the continuity of the leadership of the Catholic Church.
Also read: Pope Francis calls Myanmar to release Aung San Suu Kyi, offers Vatican City as a shelter
Pope Francis: will remain energetic despite the restrictions
Despite the falling health of Pope Francis, he still shows immunity and determination in performing his duties.
He emphasized several times that despite facing health challenges, his commitment to social issues stays a priority.
Moving forward, the world will strictly monitor its state in the approaching months, in addition to the best way the Vatican manages this case.
Regardless of whether the Pope continues to satisfy all his duties or begins to transfer certain duties to other church leaders.
The holy week begins on April 13 and can reach the Easter peak on April 20.
This raises questions on how the health of Pope Francis will affect his participation in these significant religious events.
After getting back from the hospital, Pope Francis is once more in the middle of worldwide attention, drawing each hope and challenges for the longer term of the Catholic Church.
The way the Vatican moves on this era of leadership adaptation, and the selections taken in the approaching months shall be crucial for shaping its course.
