Overview

• Pope Francis, recovering from bilateral pneumonia and a 38-day hospitalization, made a public appearance at St. Peter’s Basilica on Holy Saturday.
• He greeted and blessed visitors while in a wheelchair and notably appeared without oxygen support for the first time since his illness.
• Although he did not participate in the Easter Vigil, the Pope’s prepared homily was read by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, emphasizing hope amid global challenges.
• Key Holy Week ceremonies, including Easter Sunday Mass, are being presided over by delegated cardinals due to the Pope’s health limitations.
• The Vatican has not yet confirmed whether Pope Francis will personally deliver the traditional Urbi et Orbi blessing on Easter Sunday, though he has expressed his desire to do so.