Pope Francis: A Year of Pastoral Care
As Pope Francis recovers from bilateral pneumonia at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, we reflect on the many expressions of pastoral care for the universal Church he has carried out over the past year.
In the twelfth year of his pontificate, Pope Francis marked several key events for the Catholic Church, celebrating his 88th birthday amidst his busy schedule.
Despite his recent health challenges, the Pope has remained dedicated to his duties. Before his hospitalization, he engaged with the faithful through recitations of the Angelus and Regina Coeli, General Audiences, Masses, and various meetings.
Amongst his significant actions, Pope Francis opened the Holy Door of St. Peter’s Basilica to inaugurate the Jubilee of Hope, extending the spirit of reconciliation by opening the Holy Door at Rebibbia prison.
Throughout the year, the Pope embarked on multiple Apostolic Journeys, including visits to Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Timor-Leste, Singapore, Luxembourg, Belgium, and Corsica. He also made pastoral visits to Venice, Verona, and Trieste in Italy.
Noteworthy accomplishments include the publication of his fourth encyclical, Dilexit nos, and presiding over his tenth Consistory, creating 21 new cardinals from diverse countries.
Despite his own health challenges, Pope Francis continued to advocate for peace, sending letters and telegrams to leaders in conflict zones and disaster-stricken areas.
As he recovers in the hospital, the Pope remains grateful for the prayers and support from the faithful. In a recent audio message, he expressed his gratitude and blessings for all those praying for his health.
As we pray for his swift recovery, let us continue to be inspired by Pope Francis’s unwavering commitment to serving the Church and promoting peace and reconciliation.
