Pope Francis made his first public appearance since February 14, greeting pilgrims at St. Peter’s Square on Sunday after recovering from a severe bout of double pneumonia. The 88-year-old pontiff, who was hospitalized for acute respiratory insufficiency, had spent five weeks in Rome’s Gemelli Hospital—his most serious health crisis in 12 years as pope.
Doctors advised two months of rest, urging him to avoid group gatherings, but Francis briefly appeared after a Mass honoring healthcare workers and the sick. Wheelchair-bound and using nasal tubes, his voice was frail but clearer than when discharged on March 23.
His condition had been critical; at one point, doctors considered halting treatment. The pneumonia was especially dangerous due to his history of lung surgery.
In a written message, Francis thanked God for His “closeness” during his illness and prayed for the suffering and their caregivers. The appearance marked his first Sunday address since February 9, breaking routine for the Jubilee year Mass.
