Vatican City: Pope Francis made an unexpected return to public life on Sunday, appearing in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican for the first time since his hospital discharge two weeks ago. The 88-year-old pontiff was seen smiling and waving from a wheelchair as he greeted enthusiastic crowds under the Roman sun.
The appearance marked his first outing since March 23, when he briefly spoke upon leaving Rome’s Gemelli hospital. At that time, he had completed more than five weeks of treatment for double pneumonia, one of the gravest health challenges of his 12-year papacy.
In a surprise gesture, Francis emerged shortly before noon (1000 GMT), just after a Mass celebrating the Catholic Church’s Jubilee year. He was wheeled in front of the main altar, where he offered a brief address to the faithful.
After a five-week hospital stay for double pneumonia, Pope Francis appeared publicly for the first time, addressing the crowd in St. Peter's Square. His future public appearances remain uncertain https://t.co/pl5b0Y1A1K pic.twitter.com/x75Vyvgclh
— Reuters (@Reuters) April 6, 2025
“Happy Sunday to everyone,” said the pope, his voice fragile but notably stronger than during his last appearance. Oxygen tubes were visible beneath his nose as he spoke. “Thank you so much.”
Despite his frailty, Francis appeared in high spirits, smiling warmly and engaging with the crowd. The improvement in his voice since March 23 was noticeable, though it remained weak.
The pope, who traditionally leads the Sunday Angelus prayer from a window overlooking the square, had not delivered it since February 9. He was admitted to hospital on February 14 with bronchitis, which later escalated to double pneumonia. Given his medical history—he had part of one lung removed as a young man due to pleurisy—this development was particularly serious.
According to his chief physician, Francis’s condition during the 38-day hospitalization was so severe that doctors contemplated halting treatment to allow him to pass away peacefully.
Two Months of Rest Prescribed
Sunday’s Mass was dedicated to honoring healthcare workers and individuals suffering from illness. In a written message released by the Vatican after his appearance, the pope reflected on his time in the hospital.
“I ask the Lord that this touch of his love might reach all those who suffer and encourage those who are taking care of them,” the message read.
As the Christian world prepares for Easter Sunday in just two weeks, questions remain about the pope’s ability to resume his usual liturgical duties. Doctors have ordered two months of rest at his Vatican residence to aid his recovery, and the Vatican has cleared his calendar of all official engagements.
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In light of his condition, Britain’s King Charles—scheduled to visit Italy next week—has cancelled a planned meeting with the pontiff.
The Vatican has yet to confirm whether Pope Francis will preside over Easter celebrations on April 20, the most sacred observance in the Christian calendar.
