The Vatican has published the first photo of Pope Francis since he was hospitalized. The image captures the Pope at the chapel of Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, where he is seen wearing a stole, a liturgical vestment worn during Mass.

On Sunday, for the first time since his hospitalization a month ago, the Vatican confirmed that Pope Francis concelebrated Mass at the hospital’s chapel. Concelebration means actively participating in the Mass alongside other priests, marking a step beyond simply attending or receiving the Eucharist, as he had been doing in previous weeks.

According to the Vatican, the 88-year-old Pontiff continues his medical treatments and therapies while maintaining a regular work schedule. He had no visitors on Sunday.

Francis has been battling pneumonia, making this his longest hospital stay since he became Pope 12 years ago. In a pre-written Angelus prayer message sent to the press earlier on Sunday, he expressed gratitude for the prayers and support, calling this period a "time of trial."

Around 5:30 a.m. ET, a group of schoolchildren gathered in the hospital piazza, holding yellow and white balloons—the colors of the Vatican—and chanting "Viva il Papa!" as a sign of encouragement. Some of them entered the hospital, bringing flowers and balloons to show their support.

"I thank you all for your prayers and for those who care for me with such dedication. I know that many children are praying for me, and some even came here today to Gemelli as a sign of their closeness. Thank you, dear children! The Pope loves you and always looks forward to meeting you," Francis stated in the message.

He also urged continued prayers for peace in conflict-stricken regions, mentioning Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, Lebanon, Myanmar, Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

The Vatican press office reported that the Pope’s condition remains stable, though he still requires medical care. His need for non-invasive mechanical ventilation, which he has been using at night, has gradually decreased, while he continues receiving high-flow oxygen therapy during the day.

Despite his hospitalization, Pope Francis has affirmed his commitment to leading the Catholic Church, recently approving a new three-year reform process