Pope Francis Makes Surprise Appearance at St. Peter's Square During Recovery

Two weeks after being discharged from the hospital for severe pneumonia, the 88-year-old pontiff greeted and blessed the faithful in a symbolic gesture of resilience.

Pope Francis appeared in a wheelchair with oxygen support at St. Peter's Square on April 6, 2025, marking his first public engagement since his hospitalization.
The pope greeted and blessed the crowd after a mass dedicated to the sick, expressing gratitude to the faithful with a brief message.
The Vatican reported slight improvements in his respiratory, motor, and vocal functions as he continues a strict two-month recovery plan.
Doctors have cautioned that the pope's recovery requires significant rest to avoid complications, with his participation in Easter celebrations still uncertain.
Francis' prolonged health challenges have reignited discussions about leadership and succession within the Catholic Church.

Le Journal du Dimanche