VATICAN CITY – Pope Francis made a surprise public appearance at St. Peter’s Square on Sunday, his first since being hospitalized for double pneumonia, drawing cheers from a delighted crowd.
The 88-year-old pontiff was wheeled into the square under sunny skies, smiling and waving to the faithful. With a gentle, frail voice, and oxygen support visible beneath his nose, he said simply, “Happy Sunday to everyone. Thank you so much.”
The brief but emotional appearance comes two weeks after he was discharged from Rome’s Gemelli Hospital. The Pope had been admitted in mid-February for bronchitis, which progressed into double pneumonia. Doctors revealed he was once close to death, prompting discussions about whether to continue treatment.
Sunday’s Mass was part of the Catholic Church’s Jubilee year celebration, dedicated to healthcare workers and the sick. In a written message released afterward, Pope Francis shared how deeply he felt God’s presence during his hospitalization and offered prayers for those who are suffering.
Francis had not appeared in public since March 23 and had not delivered his traditional Sunday prayer since February 9. His doctors have since advised two months of full rest, and all scheduled events have been cleared from his calendar.
With Easter approaching on April 20, it remains uncertain whether the Pope will be well enough to lead the celebrations. Even Britain’s King Charles, due for a state visit to Italy, has canceled a planned meeting out of respect for the Pope’s recovery.