Pope Francis was discharged from Rome's Gemelli Hospital more than a week after his abdominal surgery.
He greeted crowds and joked with journalists, saying he is “still alive.” The Pope also expressed his sorrow for the more than 70 people killed in a shipwreck off the coast of Greece.
The Pope's doctor said he is doing well after the surgery. Dr. Alfieri said the medical team encouraged Pope Francis to continue to recover and even to stay in the hospital this weekend. But he has already started working again.
NATS
The Pope has confirmed all his trips.
FLASH
We have asked him to take some time to recover. But I am sure he will listen to us a little more this time.
The Pope then traveled to the Basilica of St. Mary Major to pray in front of an image of the Virgin. He also made a private visit with the sisters at the Maria Santissima Bambina Institute near the Vatican.
At the Vatican, Pope Francis stopped to greet members of the police and military guard.
The Vatican confirmed that the Pope will pray the Angelus on Sunday. But he will not hold his General Audience on June 21 to allow more time to recover.
KG
