In a statement on Friday evening, Matteo Bruni, the Director of the Holy See Press Office confirmed that Pope Francis will be discharged from Gemelli hospital on Saturday morning.

The 86-year-old pontiff was admitted in hospital on Wednesday for a respiratory infection.

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According to Vatican News, Pope Francis’ medical team, having reviewed tests carried out on Friday, and in light of the progress made so far, confirmed that the Holy Father will be discharged on Saturday morning. The confirmation was an update on the Pope’s condition issued Friday evening by the Holy See Press Office.

Pope Francis received Holy Communion Friday afternoon, after visiting the chapel of his private room for some time in prayer.

The previous update also noted that, as he is scheduled to return home to the Vatican on Saturday morning, Pope Francis is expected to preside at the Mass for Palm Sunday of the Lord’s Passion, which will be celebrated in St Peter’s Square on Sunday.

Throughout his stay at Gemelli hospital, the Holy Father expressed his gratitude for the prayers and good wishes he received during his convalescence.

The Press Office also provided further details of the Pope’s visit to the hospital’s paediatric oncology and infant neurosurgery ward. During his visit, Pope Francis expressed his gratitude for the "self-sacrifice and spirit of service” of medical personnel and caregivers "who contribute to relieving the physical ailments and the mental anguish of those who, on a daily basis, are called upon to bear witness to the Cross of Christ.”

The Pope took the time during his visit to baptize a newborn, Miguel Angel, reminding the baby’s mother to tell those who record the baptism in the parish register that "the Pope baptized him!”