His Holiness Pope Francis made a powerful public return on Palm Sunday, greeting more than 20,000 faithful in St Peter’s Square as a sign of continued recovery from a life-threatening bout of double pneumonia. The 88-year-old pontiff appeared in a wheelchair, notably without nasal tubes for supplemental oxygen, as he offered warm Easter wishes.
“Happy Palm Sunday, happy Holy Week,” Francis told the crowd. As they wheeled him to the main altar, many reached out to touch his hand or garments.
A Show of Faith
Despite doctors’ recommendations to avoid crowds, the Pope chose to defy medical advice on Sunday, using the moment to express gratitude for the prayers and support he has received during his illness.
“At this time of physical weakness, they help me to feel God’s closeness, compassion and tenderness even more,” he said. He encouraged the faithful to carry the cross “of those who suffer around us” as Holy Week began.
Uncertain Role Ahead of Easter
The Vatican has not yet confirmed what role Pope Francis will take in the upcoming Holy Week celebrations leading up to Easter on April 20. Officials say a decision will be made based on his health in the coming days.
Still, his recent activity has offered hopeful signs. On Sunday, he made his second appearance in the square after being discharged from Gemelli University Hospital on March 23, following a five-week stay. Doctors have prescribed two months of rest at the Vatican.
Calls for Peace Around the Globe
During the Palm Sunday Mass, Francis also offered prayers for regions plagued by conflict. He mentioned Sudan, where war marks its second anniversary this week, as well as Ukraine, the Middle East, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Myanmar, South Sudan, and Lebanon — where civil war began 50 years ago to the day.
Surprise Encounters and Royal Visits
In recent days, Francis has resumed a more active schedule. Last week, he made an unannounced visit to St Peter’s Basilica and held a private audience with Britain’s King Charles III and Queen Camilla — an unexpected sign of strength from the recovering pontiff.
As the Catholic world enters the holiest week of the liturgical year, Pope Francis’s resilience and spiritual leadership remain a source of inspiration for millions.
