Pope Francis, still recovering from a serious bout of double pneumonia, made an unexpected public appearance in St. Peter’s Square today, delighting thousands of faithful gathered for Easter Sunday celebrations. The 88-year-old pontiff, seated in a wheelchair, waved to the crowd and delivered a brief blessing from the central loggia of St. Peter’s Basilica, marking his first major public event since his discharge from Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on 23 March.
Looking frail but in good spirits, Francis spoke in a soft voice, saying, “Happy Easter to all,” before imparting the traditional Urbi et Orbi blessing. Unlike recent appearances, he was not using supplemental oxygen, a sign of his gradual improvement. The Vatican confirmed that Archbishop Diego Ravelli, Papal Master of Ceremonies, read the Pope’s address due to his weakened condition.
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The appearance follows a challenging period for Francis, who spent 38 days in hospital after being admitted on 14 February with bronchitis that developed into bilateral pneumonia. His doctors described two critical episodes where his life was at risk, though he has since shown steady progress. Today’s event, part of the Easter Sunday festivities, underscores his determination to resume public duties despite medical advice for two months of rest.
Crowds cheered “Francesco!” as the Pope, dressed in white vestments, greeted pilgrims, including healthcare workers attending the ongoing Jubilee Year events. The Vatican has yet to confirm the extent of Francis’ participation in upcoming Holy Week ceremonies, with his medical team urging caution.
“Seeing him today was like a miracle,” said Maria Rossi, a pilgrim from Milan. “He’s frail, but his spirit is strong.”
The Pope’s surprise appearance comes amid the 2025 Jubilee Year, with Rome expecting 35 million pilgrims. Francis has already opened the Holy Door of St. Peter’s Basilica, a key ritual of the Holy Year, symbolising hope and renewal.
Vatican officials say Francis remains actively involved in Church governance, meeting recently with Britain’s King Charles III and continuing to guide preparations for the Jubilee. However, his health remains a concern, with some speculating about the future of his papacy. For now, today’s blessing reaffirmed his commitment to leading the world’s 1.4 billion Catholics.
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