VATICAN CITY — The Vatican released a photo of Pope Francis celebrating mass in his hospital suite's private chapel, the first image of the pontiff shared since his hospitalisation on Feb. 14. 

 In the photo Francis, admitted to Policlinico A. Gemelli hospital 32 days ago, faces the chapel's altar in a wheelchair.

 The pope spent his first three weeks in hospital battling bronchitis, respiratory infections, double pneumonia, kidney failure, and a series of a respiratory crises.

 His care team announced last Monday that he was no longer in critical condition.

 On March 14 the Vatican press office told journalists to expect less frequent updates on Francis' health.  The pontiff shows "gradual improvements," the Vatican said. He continues to receive motor and respiratory physiotherapy. 

jlb