The Vatican has released the first image of Pope Francis since he was hospitalised last month, showing him praying in the chapel of Rome's Gamelli Hospital.
The 88-year-old Pontiff was hospitalised on February 14, suffering from respiratory problems. He was treated for double pneumonia and multiple infections and for some time was in a critical condition.
While the Vatican press office released a short audio clip of Pope Francis on March 6, thanking people for their prayers, he hasn't been seen publicly since he entered the hospital.
Alongside the release of the photo, the Vatican said the Holy Father had "concelebrated" Mass. On previous Sundays he was only described as having "participated" in the liturgy.
The Pope also thanked the many who were gathered outside the hospital praying for him.
“I know that many children are praying for me; some of them came here today to Gemelli as a sign of closeness,” he wrote. “Thank you, dearest children! The Pope loves you and is always waiting to meet you.”
The release suggests the Pope is continuing to respond to treatment but another detailed bulletin of his condition isn't expected until later this week.
It also came just a few days after the Holy Father celebrated the 12 year anniversary of his election as Pope.
The Vatican has not indicated how long Pope Francis is expected to remain in hospital.