Vatican City – Pope Francis surprised attendees at a Mass in St. Peter’s Square on Sunday, making his first public appearance since being hospitalized for double pneumonia. The 88-year-old pontiff addressed the crowd, expressing gratitude and spreading messages of hope amid his ongoing recovery.
The pontiff, who had spent 38 days in the hospital, attended a special Jubilee Year Mass for the sick, health care workers, and caregivers. Despite his weakened voice, Francis greeted the crowd with a smile, acknowledging their support and encouragement throughout his illness. The surprising appearance marked his first public event at the Vatican since early February.
Before joining the crowd in St. Peter’s Square, Francis sought spiritual guidance by going to confession at St. Peter’s Basilica and passing through the Holy Door for the Jubilee Year. The pope, still receiving oxygen and wearing nasal tubes, continues to undergo physical and motor therapy to aid in his recovery.
During the Mass, Archbishop Rino Fisichella delivered the pope’s traditional Sunday blessing and homily on his behalf. In the homily, Francis reflected on his own experiences with illness, emphasizing the importance of compassion and solidarity towards the sick and vulnerable. He called for support and respect for health care workers, recognizing the challenges they face in their roles.
In a message shared after the Mass, the pope expressed gratitude for health professionals and called for investments in treatment and research to improve health care systems worldwide. He encouraged doctors and nurses to see each patient as an opportunity to demonstrate humanity and foster hope during times of illness or suffering.
Francis reiterated his call for peace across the globe, urging the international community to prioritize dialogue over conflict in regions affected by war. He identified areas in urgent need of assistance, including Ukraine, Gaza, Sudan, South Sudan, Congo, Myanmar, and Haiti. The pope emphasized the importance of compassion and solidarity as essential elements for building a more peaceful and inclusive world.
As Francis continues his recovery at the Vatican guest house, his unexpected appearance brought hope and inspiration to those gathered in St. Peter’s Square. With messages of love, gratitude, and unity, the pontiff’s words resonate with believers worldwide, offering a source of comfort and strength during challenging times.