Pope Francis made a surprise public appearance at St. Peter’s Square on Sunday, just two weeks after being discharged from the hospital for a severe case of pneumonia. The 88-year-old pontiff, who had not been seen in public since February 14, was wheeled through the square following a special mass dedicated to the sick.
Despite his frail voice and visible nasal breathing tubes, Pope Francis greeted the faithful with a gentle, “A good Sunday to all. Thank you very much,” as he smiled and waved to the crowd, surrounded by a sea of smartphones and cameras.
His presence marked a significant break from his prescribed two-month convalescence, which his doctors had strictly outlined to include complete rest and no interaction with crowds to prevent infection. Yet, in a show of resilience and devotion, the Pope chose to defy those orders — at least briefly — to connect with his flock.
“He’s doing better, that’s clear, and he wants that to be seen,” a Vatican source said anonymously to AFP. “He’s not yet well enough to deliver a message, but well enough to make a gesture… and show up.”
Earlier in the morning, Pope Francis received the sacrament inside St. Peter’s Cathedral. Although he did not read the traditional Angelus prayer aloud, it was released in written form. In it, he offered prayers for healthcare workers, whom he praised for their difficult and often underappreciated mission.
The pontiff also called for peace across global conflict zones, including Ukraine, Sudan, South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Haiti, and earthquake-stricken Myanmar. He gave particular attention to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, urging for an end to hostilities and the release of hostages held by Hamas.
Francis, who had part of his lung removed in his youth, has faced multiple health challenges in recent years. While he continues to recuperate under medical supervision within the Vatican, his unexpected appearance has offered reassurance and hope to the 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide ahead of the Easter celebrations.
