New Delhi, March 23 -- ope Francis has expressed deep gratitude to those who prayed for his recovery following his five-week hospitalisation for life-threatening double pneumonia. Shortly after being discharged from Rome's Gemelli Hospital on Sunday (March 23), the 88-year-old pontiff posted on X, formerly Twitter, thanking followers for their patience and perseverance in praying for his health.

"You have continued to pray for me with so much patience and perseverance: thank you so much! I also pray for you. Let us #PrayTogether for #Peace, especially in martyred Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, Lebanon, Myanmar, Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo," Pope Francis wrote.

Pope Francis, appearing visibly frail and using supplemental oxy...