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Pope Francis Delivers Easter Blessing, Calls for Gaza Ceasefire

The 88-year-old pontiff, recovering from double pneumonia, appeared on St. Peter's Basilica balcony after delegating Easter Mass duties to Cardinal Angelo Comastri.

Pope Francis stands on the main balcony of St. Peter's basilica for the Urbi et Orbi message and blessing to the city and the world as part of Easter celebrations, at St Peter's square in the Vatican on April 20, 2025. (Photo by Tiziana FABI / AFP) (Photo by TIZIANA FABI/AFP via Getty Images)
Pontifical Swiss guards arrive for the Easter mass in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican Sunday, April 20, 2025. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Overview

  • Pope Francis gave the traditional Urbi et Orbi blessing from the St. Peter's Basilica balcony, marking his most prominent appearance since his hospitalization.
  • The Easter Mass was led by Cardinal Angelo Comastri, as the pope continues to recover under doctors' orders to limit public duties.
  • In his Easter message, the pope appealed for a ceasefire in Gaza, the release of hostages, and humanitarian aid for those affected by the ongoing conflict.
  • The pontiff briefly met with U.S. Vice President JD Vance earlier in the day to exchange Easter greetings during the vice president's visit to Rome.
  • The 2025 Jubilee Holy Year has drawn an estimated one million pilgrims to Rome, intensifying the significance of the Easter celebrations.