In a vibrant display of love and hope, dozens of children donned yellow and white colors—the traditional hues of the Vatican—gathering outside the Policlinico A. Gemelli, where Pope Francis has been hospitalized for over a month. Their chants of “Papa Francesco” and “Viva la Pace” filled the air with optimism as they waved homemade signs expressing their affection for the pontiff. One young boy, along with a spirited group of children dressed as “castorini,” displayed a heartfelt message reading “Ciao Papa Cesco, I love you a lot,” hoping to catch a glimpse of the pope through his hospital room window.
Though the pontiff did not appear in person, he acknowledged the children during his regular Sunday blessing and prayer session, which he could not deliver live due to his health condition. Expressing gratitude, he said, “I know that many children are praying for me; today, some came here to Gemelli as a sign of closeness.” He reassured them, “The pope loves you and is always waiting to meet you.”
The gathering was organized by the Rev. Enzo Fortunato, president of the pontifical committee for World Children’s Day, who highlighted the joy children bring. “Their presence is a symbolic medicine for Pope Francis," he noted. The posters and letters created by the children will be preserved for the pope’s eventual return to the Casa Santa Marta, the Vatican residence. Father Fortunato expressed confidence that Pope Francis would personally reply to each message when he is able to do so, further affirming the bond the pontiff shares with the younger generations.
Though the pontiff did not appear in person, he acknowledged the children during his regular Sunday blessing and prayer session, which he could not deliver live due to his health condition. Expressing gratitude, he said, “I know that many children are praying for me; today, some came here to Gemelli as a sign of closeness.” He reassured them, “The pope loves you and is always waiting to meet you.”
The gathering was organized by the Rev. Enzo Fortunato, president of the pontifical committee for World Children’s Day, who highlighted the joy children bring. “Their presence is a symbolic medicine for Pope Francis," he noted. The posters and letters created by the children will be preserved for the pope’s eventual return to the Casa Santa Marta, the Vatican residence. Father Fortunato expressed confidence that Pope Francis would personally reply to each message when he is able to do so, further affirming the bond the pontiff shares with the younger generations.
