The Pope Francis made a surprise appearance this Sunday in St. Peter's Square, after having overcome a severe bilateral pneumonia that kept him hospitalized for 38 days at the Gemelli Polyclinic in Rome.
It is the first time he has been seen in public since his return to the Vatican on March 23, reported ACI Prensa.
The 88-year-old Pontiff arrived at the main altar in a wheelchair, accompanied by his personal nurse, Massimo Strappetti, to participate in the Mass for the Jubilee of the Sick, presided over in his name by the pro-prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelization, Mons. Rino Fisichella.
Visibly fatigued and with nasal cannulas for oxygen, the Pope blessed the faithful and, although with difficulty, spoke a few words into the microphone: "Happy Sunday, thank you all!" he said in a weak voice, pausing to catch his breath.
The Holy Father continues to convalesce in his residence at Santa Marta, from where he has been following his recovery.
According to medical sources from the Vatican, his pneumonia is improving, although he still suffers from lingering effects such as partial loss of voice and difficulty breathing.
It is expected that he will regain his speech in a short time, emphasized the cited news portal.
Before his appearance in the square, Francisco received the sacrament of reconciliation in the basilica, prayed, and crossed the Holy Door, in one of the most symbolic moments of the Holy Year.
During the procession, he walked through a roped-off aisle filled with hundreds of faithful who welcomed him with excitement, applause, and displays of affection.
Her reappearance has been interpreted as a gesture of strength and hope amidst her fragile health condition.
The Holy See has not yet confirmed whether the Pope will participate in the Holy Week rituals.
The Press Office has stated that "it is still too early to discuss it" and that details will be provided later.
After several days of speculation regarding his health, the Vatican released on March 17 the first image of Pope Francis since his hospitalization due to bilateral pneumonia.
In the photograph, the Pontiff was seen in the room of the Gemelli Polyclinic in Rome, looking visibly tired but serene, accompanied by his medical team and personal nurse. This image was interpreted as a gesture of transparency in response to the global concern caused by his public absence.
A day later, it was revealed that the Pope spent the night on non-invasive mechanical ventilation due to acute respiratory failure. According to medical sources from the Vatican, the treatment included high-flow oxygen therapy, and the health team expressed caution regarding the evolution of his condition, emphasizing that, given his age and medical history, recovery would be slow and closely monitored. The Vatican reiterated on that date that the Holy Father remained alert and stable within his delicate clinical picture.
Finally, on March 23, Pope Francis was discharged from the hospital after 38 days of admission. Upon his exit, he was transported in a wheelchair to his residence in Santa Marta, where he would continue his recovery. During his brief public appearance, he waved and expressed gratitude for the prayers he received.
The Holy See confirmed that, although his pneumonia had subsided, there were still lingering effects such as difficulty in breathing and partial loss of voice.
Frequently Asked Questions about Pope Francis' Health
What is the current health status of Pope Francis?
Pope Francis is in the process of recovery after overcoming a severe bilateral pneumonia that kept him hospitalized for 38 days. Although his pneumonia is subsiding, he still suffers from residual effects such as partial loss of voice and breathing difficulties.
What health complications has Pope Francis faced recently?
Pope Francis faced severe bilateral pneumonia that led to acute respiratory failure, requiring high-flow oxygen therapy and non-invasive mechanical ventilation. His recovery was delicate due to his age and medical history.
When did Pope Francis reappear in public after his hospitalization?
Pope Francis made a surprise appearance in St. Peter's Square on April 6, 2025, after being discharged from the hospital on March 23 of the same year. His reappearance was a gesture of strength in light of his fragile health.
What are the expectations for the Pope's participation in the Holy Week ceremonies?
Pope Francis' participation in the Holy Week ceremonies is still not confirmed. The Holy See has indicated that it is premature to discuss his participation in the rituals, and further details will be provided later according to his health progress.
Filed under:
