Pope Francis unexpectedly appeared in St. Peter’s Square this past Sunday, making his first public appearance since his release from Rome’s Gemelli Hospital two weeks before.
His participation was during the Jubilee Mass for the Sick and Healthcare Workers, part of the 2025 Jubilee of Hope.
Arriving in a wheelchair, Pope Prancis greeted pilgrims, saying: “Happy Sunday to everyone. Thank you so much!”
Archbishop Rino Fisichella, pro-prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelization, celebrated the Mass and delivered the homily by Pope Francis. Pope Francis, however, joined for the final blessing.
Earlier, the Vatican reported Pope Francis had confession inside St. Peter’s Basilica, prayed and passed through the Basilica’s Holy Doors.
The Vatican previously confirmed he would rest for two months, receiving treatments including high-flow oxygen therapy and physical therapy.
Pope Francis was hospitalized for 38 days beginning February 14, diagnosed with double pneumonia and a severe respiratory infection.
The Mass reportedly had around 20,000 pilgrims gathered there, health professionals and patients who responded with gratitude to Pope Francis’s appearance.
Please pray for the health of Pope Francis and his intentions! 🙏
Editorial credit: Marco Iacobucci Epp / Shutterstock.com
