Carol Glatz

As Pope Francis’ condition remains stable, which is a sign of continued improvement, he followed the start of the Lenten retreat for the Roman Curia by video linkup and met again with two top Vatican officials to stay abreast of current events, the Vatican press office said.

The world needs the “miracle of tenderness” brought by people who accompany those experiencing illness or adversity, Pope Francis wrote.

Pope Francis continues to rest, pray, follow his doctors’ prescribed therapies and work a bit throughout the day, the Vatican press office said March 7.

Pope Francis has expressed his gratitude for the outpouring of prayers from all over the world, said Archbishop Edgar Peña Parra, who has visited the pope twice in the hospital.

The best medicine to heal the pain of a wounded family is forgiveness, Pope Francis said.