In the Angelus address that Pope Francis chose to have released this Sunday, as he recuperates at Rome's Gemelli Hospital, he encouraged deacons to carry on their service with joy and love, and expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the doctors and healthcare staff attending to him and other patients in the hospital.

"I urge you to continue your apostolate joyfully, and—as today's Gospel suggests—be a sign of love that embraces all, transforms evil into good, and fosters a fraternal world," Pope Francis shared in his Angelus address on Sunday, 22 February 2025.

Following his hospitalization at Rome's Gemelli Hospital for double pneumonia, the Holy Father did not deliver the address in person but requested the Holy See Press Office to make it available to the faithful.

In his message, the Pope reflected on the Jubilee of Deacons taking place at the Vatican, mentioning the Mass held that morning in St. Peter's Basilica, where several deacons were ordained.

"I greet them and all participants in the Jubilee of Deacons currently happening at the Vatican," Pope Francis expressed, adding his thanks to the Dicasteries for the Clergy and for Evangelization for organizing the event.

Addressing his "dear brothers in the diaconate," the Pope acknowledged their dedication to proclaiming the Word and serving through charity. He praised their commitment to performing their ministry in the Church through both words and deeds, bringing God's love and mercy to all.

Pope Francis urged them to continue their work with joy and love, encouraging them to "risk love" without fear. "I urge you to continue your apostolate with joy and—as today's Gospel suggests—be a sign of love that embraces all," he reiterated.

"As for me," the Holy Father added, "I continue my stay at the Gemelli Polyclinic with confidence, receiving the necessary treatments. Rest is also part of the therapy!"

With gratitude, Pope Francis extended his sincere thanks to the doctors and healthcare workers for their attentive care and dedication to serving the sick. "I sincerely thank the doctors and healthcare workers at this hospital for the attention they are showing me and for their dedication to their service among the sick," he concluded.