Pope Francis Addresses Faithful Despite Recent Health Struggles

During Easter Mass, the Pope, in a wheelchair and recovering from pneumonia, delivered blessings and urged unity amidst global conflicts.

Pope Francis made a touching appearance at St. Peter’s Square on Sunday, where he blessed the tens of thousands of faithful gathered for Easter Mass. His fragile presence was evident to all as he addressed the crowd from a balcony at St. Peter’s Basilica, a sight that drew a warm and enthusiastic reception from the attendees.

The Pope, whose voice was notably weak and raspy just weeks after his hospitalization for life-threatening pneumonia, greeted the crowd with a heartfelt "Dear brothers and sisters, Happy Easter." However, it was Archbishop Diego Ravelli who articulated the papal message known as “Urbi et Orbi,” typically delivered during major religious occasions such as Easter and Christmas.

The crowd erupted in cheers as the pontiff raised his hand in greeting, a galvanizing moment that reaffirmed their support for him amid his health challenges. After the address, he extended his blessings to those present, prompting chants of “Viva il Papa,” translating to “Long Live the Pope.”

Before making his public appearance, the Pope had a brief meeting with Vice President JD Vance, who was visiting Rome for the holiday. Doctors had advised Pope Francis to take a cautious approach to his health after his release from the hospital on March 23, recommending rest for at least two months and avoidance of crowds to minimize exposure to germs. His recent health scare was severe enough to raise concern about his survival, having spent five weeks in treatment for pneumonia and associated complications.