Pope Francis made a significant appearance in St. Peter’s Square for Palm Sunday, marking a hopeful moment as he recovers from a serious bout of double pneumonia. The 88-year-old pontiff addressed a crowd of around 20,000 people, just weeks after his release from the hospital, where he spent five weeks being treated for his illness.
Using a wheelchair, the Pope was brought down a ramp to the main altar. He greeted the faithful warmly, thanking them for their support and wishing them a "Good Palm Sunday, a good Holy Week." This was a reassuring sight, especially since he was seen with nasal tubes for supplemental oxygen just a week earlier.
As he made his way back to St. Peter’s Basilica, the Pope took a moment to bless a rosary and share sweets with a young boy who reached out to him. His presence was a sign of his ongoing recovery and resilience after a challenging health scare.
In his traditional Sunday blessing, which he has been delivering in written form since his hospitalization in mid-February, Pope Francis reflected on his physical weakness. He expressed how this time has helped him feel God’s closeness and compassion even more deeply. He also offered prayers for those suffering in conflict zones, including Sudan, Lebanon, Ukraine, and other areas facing turmoil.
Pope Francis was admitted to the hospital on February 14 for bronchitis that developed into double pneumonia, a serious condition given his medical history, which includes past lung issues. He was discharged on March 23, and his first public appearance after his recovery was last Sunday, when he briefly addressed the crowd in St. Peter’s Square.
His appearance on Palm Sunday not only signifies his recovery but also highlights his commitment to his role as a spiritual leader, bringing hope and blessings to his followers during this important time in the Christian calendar.