Pope Francis Blesses Congregants on Easter Sunday Amidst Recovery

On Easter Sunday, Pope Francis made a notable appearance in St. Peter's Square, blessing the large crowd as he continued his recovery from a severe case of double pneumonia. With a noticeably stronger voice, he joyfully greeted the faithful, who responded enthusiastically with "Viva il Papa!" as he moved through the square in his open-topped popemobile, a sight that seemed improbable just weeks before when his health was precarious.

Though he missed the solemn observances of Good Friday and Holy Saturday, Francis's return to St. Peter's Square was met with appreciation from the public. While he delegated the responsibility of celebrating the Easter Mass to Cardinal Angelo Comastri, he did not miss the opportunity to appear on the loggia balcony post-Mass, where he engaged with the eager crowd, who responded with roaring cheers along with the accompaniment of a military band.

In his address, which was read by Archbishop Diego Ravelli, the Pope issued a global call for peace, particularly pertaining to regions such as Gaza, Ukraine, Congo, and Myanmar, emphasizing the need for resolutions to ongoing conflicts. He specifically prayed for peace in war-torn Ukraine during this Jubilee year, expressing hope for the liberation of prisoners and an end to suffering, underscoring the true spirit of Easter and its celebrations among Christians worldwide.