Pope appears in St. Peter's Square for the first time in weeks

Francis last appeared in public while being discharged from the hospital in March

Pope Francis appeared in public for the first time in weeks on Sunday, greeting crowds from a wheelchair in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican.

It was the first time Francis appeared in public since he briefly addressed crowds when being discharged from the hospital on March 23. The pope suffered a bout of double pneumonia that left him hospitalized for five weeks.

Francis made the unannounced visit near the end of Mass and delivered a brief greeting, all while receiving oxygen via his nose.

The Vatican also released a written message from Francis marking Sunday's Mass, which was specially focused on healthcare workers.

"I ask the Lord that this touch of his love might reach all those who suffer and encourage those who are taking care of them," said the text.

Date: 2025-04-06