Pope Francis Makes Surprise Appearance at Vatican After Pneumonia
Health Update
Pope Francis, 88, made a surprise Sunday public appearance at the Vatican, just two weeks after leaving hospital for a serious case of pneumonia. The Argentine pope was wheeled through Saint Peter’s Square in his wheelchair, surrounded by a mass of smartphones and cameras, and attached to nasal breathing tubes. His voice was fragile but more audible than when he left the Gemelli hospital on March 23.
Contrary to Doctor’s Advice
Francis is undergoing two months of convalescence following his life-threatening health scare, with strict rest, no public activity, and no contact with crowds. However, the Jesuit spent Sunday morning blessing the masses gathered on the sunny square, in an encouraging signal for his health two weeks before Christians the world over celebrate Easter. His eagerness to reach out to the flock comes against the advice of his doctors, who have urged him to avoid meeting groups of people to limit the risk of infection.
Doctors’ Warning
A Vatican source told AFP on condition of anonymity, "He’s doing better, that’s clear, and he wants that to be seen. He’s not yet well enough to deliver a message, but well enough to make a gesture… and show up."
Near-Death Experience
According to his doctors, Francis almost died twice during his time in hospital, the longest and most fraught of his 12 years as head of the Church. His physical state has sparked speculation the pontiff might hang up his papal crook after the example of his predecessor Benedict XVI, who quit in 2013 citing his declining mental and physical health.
Prayer for the Sick and World’s Conflicts
Before his surprise appearance, the pope received the sacrament in St Peter’s Cathedral, the Vatican said in a statement on Telegram. He did not read out the customary Angelus prayer, which was published in written form instead. In his message, he prayed for the doctors, nurses, and healthcare workers, who are not always helped to work in adequate conditions and who are even, sometimes, victims of attacks. He also prayed for an end to the world’s conflicts, mentioning Ukraine, Sudan, South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Myanmar, and Haiti.
Prayer for Gaza
Francis prayed for the Middle East and especially Gaza, where Israel last week again launched a ground offensive against Palestinian militant group Hamas. He said that people are forced to live in unimaginable conditions, without shelter, without food, without drinkable water. He called for the freeing of the hostages held by Hamas since its October 7, 2023 attack that began the war.
Papal Duties
Francis, who had part of his lung removed as a young man, has suffered a series of health woes in recent years. While being assisted his recovery by healthcare workers night and day at his Vatican residence, Francis has not seen any visitors beyond his closest colleagues since his release from the Gemelli Hospital. However, he has taken up his papal duties again, notably in editing and putting his signature to documents, according to the Holy See. He has, however, been forced to reduce his usual frenetic schedule, and the scale of his involvement in the religious events leading up to Easter is so far unclear.
Conclusion
Pope Francis’s surprise appearance at the Vatican is a testament to his commitment to his flock, despite his fragile health. His prayer for the sick, doctors, and healthcare workers is a reminder of the importance of compassion and respect for those who dedicate their lives to caring for others. The world is watching with bated breath as Francis continues his recovery and prepares for the Easter celebrations.
FAQs
Q: What is Pope Francis’s current health status?
A: Pope Francis is undergoing two months of convalescence following his life-threatening health scare, with strict rest, no public activity, and no contact with crowds.
Q: Did Pope Francis’s doctors advise him to avoid meeting groups of people?
A: Yes, Pope Francis’s doctors urged him to avoid meeting groups of people to limit the risk of infection.
Q: Will Pope Francis continue to carry out his papal duties?
A: Yes, Pope Francis has taken up his papal duties again, notably in editing and putting his signature to documents, according to the Holy See.
Q: How is Pope Francis’s recovery progressing?
A: Pope Francis is doing better, according to a Vatican source, but he is not yet well enough to deliver a message or engage in public activities.