Pope Francis, 88, sustained an injury to his right arm after a fall at his residence, Casa Santa Marta, on Thursday morning. However, the Vatican has confirmed that there were no fractures, and the injury is not severe.
According to an official statement from the Holy See press office, the pontiff suffered a contusion (bruise) on his right forearm. As a precaution, his arm has been immobilized. Images from the Vatican later showed Pope Francis wearing a cloth sling while carrying out his official duties.
Despite the incident, the Pope maintained a busy schedule on Thursday. He held at least five meetings, including discussions with Alvaro Lario, the President of the International Fund for Agricultural Development, and a group of priests from an Argentine college based in Rome.
A History of Health Challenges
This recent fall marks the second time in just a few weeks that Pope Francis has suffered an accident. In early December, he was seen with a visible bruise on his chin after falling and hitting a bedside table during the night.
The Pope has faced several health challenges in recent years. Since 2022, he has frequently used a wheelchair due to mobility issues caused by persistent knee pain. However, he remains active and engaged in his duties.
In his recently published autobiography, Hope, Pope Francis reassured the public that his overall health remains stable, dismissing any speculation about resignation. He acknowledged the challenges of aging but emphasized that physical limitations do not impact his leadership.
“The reality is, quite simply, that I am old,” he wrote. “It was embarrassing at first to have to use a wheelchair, but old age never arrives by itself, and it must be accepted for what it is.”
The Pope further explained that he undergoes physiotherapy twice a week and uses a walking stick when possible. He affirmed his commitment to leading the Church, stating, “The Church is governed using the head and the heart, not the legs.”
Public Appearances and Ongoing Engagements
Despite health concerns, Pope Francis continues to engage with the public and maintain a lively presence. Just a day before his fall, he led the general audience at the Vatican, where he appeared in high spirits. At one point, he was seen playfully tossing a tennis ball to a dog during a circus performance.
Additionally, the Pope is scheduled to appear on the Italian talk show Che Tempo Che Fa this Sunday at 07:30 CET on Nove, a channel owned by Warner Bros. Discovery, CNN’s corporate parent. This appearance underscores his commitment to staying connected with the public despite recent health concerns.
Conclusion
Pope Francis’ latest injury highlights the physical challenges he faces at his age, but it has not deterred him from fulfilling his responsibilities. His resilience and determination continue to inspire millions worldwide.
