Pope Francis back on X, thanks for messages of affection

(ANSA) - ROME, FEB 23 - After a week away from social media Pope Francis, who is being treated at Rome's Policlinico Gemelli Hospital for double pneumonia, was back on his X account in nine languages @Pontifex.
    Meanwhile large groups of well-wishers left scarves, balloons, rosaries and candles in front of the polyclinic and gathered in groups to pray for his recovery on Sunday, when Francis missed his second consecutive Angelus prayer and asked a senior prelate to lead a morning mass for deacons as part of celebrations to mark the Holy Jubilee Year.
    "I have recently received many messages of affection, and I have been particularly struck by the letters and drawings from children", said the post.
    "Thank you for your closeness, and for the consoling prayers I have received from all over the world!", wrote the pontiff.
    In another post referring to the Jubilee of Deacons the pope wrote: "I urge you to continue your apostolate with joy and to be a sign of a love that embraces everyone, as the #GospelOfTheDay suggests.
    "May we transform evil into goodness and build a fraternal world.
    "Do not be afraid to take risks for love!", said the post.
    The organizer of the Holy Year, Archbishop Rino Fisichella, celebrated the mass in the pontiff's place at St Peter's Basilica on Sunday and offered a special prayer for Francis from the altar before delivering the homily the pope had prepared.
    (ANSA).