VaticanCity (AsiaNews) – Today, third Sunday of Lent, offered a special Angelus. For the first time in 26 years on the throne of Peter, John Paul II did not appear at his studio window in St Peter's Square.

The Pope, hospitalised at the Gemelli hospital since February 22 where he underwent a tracheotomy to ease his breathing, followed the prayer from his sickbed.

At the end of the service, he came to his room's window to bless those who had gathered in the hospital's courtyard. He waved at the people and the journalists below touching his throat almost to signify that he could not speak.

Thousands had converged in St Peter's Square to pray for the Pontiff's health. Other well-wishers have sent their greetings from around the world whilst prayer vigils have been held on every continent.

Mgr Leonardo Sandri, Substitute Secretary of State, led the prayer. Together with some faithful, Archbishop Sandri greeted the crowds from the square.

"The Holy Fathers is not among us, but he is watching us from hospital," he said. "He offers his prayers and suffering to the whole world. And we from this square join him, and with our great affection pray with him and for him.

Here are the Pope's remarks as read by Archbishop Sandri:

"Dear brothers and sisters, once more I speak to you from the Gemelli hospital. I thank you with affection and I feel your closeness in spirit.

"My thoughts are for all those—individuals and groups—who are now gathered in St Peter's Square, and to all the people who around the world are concerned about me. Please, continue to be by my side through your prayers.

"The penitential atmosphere of Lent that now surrounds us helps us better understand the value of suffering. One way or another, suffering touches us all.

"Looking up to Christ and following him with patient confidence we can understand how every form of human suffering encloses a promise of divine salvation and joy.

"I want this message of comfort and hope to reach everyone, especially those who are going through tough times, those who suffer in their body and in their spirit.

"To Mary, Mother of the Church, I entrust myself again: Totus tuus! May She help us fulfill God's Holy Will in every moment of our lives.

"May my fatherly blessing reach you, one and all".