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3w ago

Pope Francis Marks Palm Sunday With Public Appearance Signaling Health Progress

The 88-year-old pontiff greeted over 20,000 faithful in St. Peter's Square, appearing without supplemental oxygen for the first time since his recovery from double pneumonia.

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Pope Francis arrives at the end of the mass on Palm Sunday in St. Peter's Square at The Vatican, Sunday, April 13, 2025. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)
Pope Francis arrives at the end of the mass on Palm Sunday in St. Peter's Square at The Vatican, Sunday, April 13, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)
Pope Francis arrives at the end of the mass on Palm Sunday in St. Peter's Square at The Vatican, Sunday, April 13, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

Overview

  • Pope Francis made a surprise appearance at St. Peter's Square on Palm Sunday, greeting the crowd from a wheelchair and wishing them a 'Good Palm Sunday, a good Holy Week.'
  • This marks the second public appearance by the pope since his discharge from a five-week hospital stay for double pneumonia on March 23.
  • For the first time since his illness, Francis appeared without the use of supplemental oxygen, a visible sign of his improving health.
  • Despite doctors' recommendations for a two-month rest, the pope has made several unscheduled outings, including meetings with King Charles III and Queen Camilla, and visits to Roman basilicas.
  • During his Palm Sunday appearance, Francis thanked the faithful for their prayers, blessed a rosary, offered candy to a child, and prayed for global peace, highlighting conflicts in Sudan, Ukraine, and other regions.