It was Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime, SDB, Pro-Prefect of the Dicastery for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life (DIVCSVA), who announced this "wonderful news"—a personal message the Holy Father wished to share with the world—before leading the now-traditional Rosary for the Pope’s recovery.
“I sincerely thank you for your prayers for my health from the Square. I accompany you from here. May God bless you, and may the Virgin watch over you. Thank you.”
The Pope’s voice was labored, his breathing heavy, and his words slowly articulated—but it was Pope Francis! A wave of applause erupted from the crowd. The Pope had "returned" home, and from the tenth floor of what had become his residence since February 14, he made his presence felt among those who had been gathering each evening in the embrace of Bernini’s colonnade, praying for his healing.
This was a gesture of gratitude from the Pope, who was deeply moved by the countless messages of affection he receives daily, grateful for the prayers of the People of God. "A beautiful gift," remarked Cardinal Fernández Artime, "for us who are here and for the whole world: so many people—Catholics, Christians, men and women of goodwill—who are close to him and pray for him."
The Rosary prayer resumed with difficulty, as the Pope’s voice still echoed in the hearts of the faithful. Cardinal Fernández Artime paused for the applause to subside before beginning the Luminous Mysteries. The crowd’s gaze shifted between the audio speakers and the large screens, as if hoping to see the Pope, not just hear him. Among those gathered were numerous nuns, many priests, and even a group of young people. More worshipers arrived as the Schola Cantorum began the hymn to Our Lady.
"We gather in prayer for the health of the Holy Father, Pope Francis, with Mary, Mother of the Church and of Good Counsel," said the Pro-Prefect of DIVCSVA. Behind him, as on the previous eleven nights, stood the icon of Mary Mater Ecclesiae, seemingly watching over the cardinals, bishops, priests, and religious from the Roman Curia and Diocese of Rome, who stood on the steps alongside a diverse crowd of faithful, all united in prayer for the Pope’s healing.
Cardinal Fernández Artime then led the moment of prayer, fixing his gaze on Mary, and concluded by saying, "May no obstacle divert us from the path that leads to salvation." The assembly then chanted the ancient prayer "Oremus pro Pontifice nostro Francisco" before beginning the Rosary for the Holy Father, who, though physically distant for over twenty days, was in that moment, present once again.
Source: Vatican News - Link
