Pope Francis, who has been battling the flu, delegated the reading of his prepared speech at a conference in the Vatican on Friday due to his ongoing recovery from the illness. The 87-year-old Pontiff, who was recently hospitalized for diagnostic testing after canceling public appearances, expressed his fatigue and cold symptoms, prompting him to hand over his speech to his aide, Mons. Filippo Ciampanelli.
Despite his health challenges, Pope Francis addressed the audience at the conference, titled “Man-Woman Image of God - For an Anthropology of Vocations,” where he criticized what he referred to as “gender ideology” as a significant threat. He emphasized the importance of recognizing and celebrating the differences between men and women, denouncing the ideology that seeks to erase these distinctions.
Concerns about the Pope's health have been mounting in recent months, as he has faced various medical issues, including knee trouble that led to his use of a wheelchair and cane. Last year, he underwent surgery to remove a portion of his colon due to inflammation, adding to his existing respiratory challenges from a previous lung surgery.
Despite his health setbacks, Pope Francis has continued to fulfill his duties, albeit with some modifications. He recently canceled appointments and a trip due to a mild flu, but made an appearance for the Sunday blessing at St. Peter’s Square. His decision to delegate the reading of his speech at the conference reflects his ongoing recovery and the need to conserve his energy.
As the leader of the Roman Catholic Church, Pope Francis remains committed to his role, even as he navigates health challenges. His dedication to addressing important issues, such as gender ideology, underscores his continued engagement with global concerns and his efforts to uphold the values of the Church.
