Pope Francis Surprises Faithful Amid Recovery at Palm Sunday Mass

VATICAN CITY — Pope Francis made a surprise appearance before thousands of faithful in St. Peter’s Square on Palm Sunday, April 13, 2025, as he continued his recovery from a serious bilateral pneumonia that had put his life at risk.

The 88-year-old pontiff, who is still convalescing, greeted the crowd from a wheelchair, wishing everyone a “good Palm Sunday, a good Holy Week”. This marked his second public appearance since his hospital discharge on March 23, after a 38-day stay that included treatment for pneumonia.

Many attendees reached out to touch Francis as he was wheeled toward the main altar, where he offered a brief greeting into a microphone. Unlike last week, he did not wear nasal tubes for supplemented oxygen, a sign of his improving health.

As he returned to the Vatican after the Mass, he paused to bless a rosary and share sweets with a child who called out to him. Despite his efforts to reassure the public about his condition, the Vatican stated he has been advised to avoid large crowds during his recovery.

During the traditional Sunday blessing, the Pope expressed gratitude for the prayers offered for him. “In this moment of physical weakness, you help me feel even more the closeness, compassion, and tenderness of God,” he said.

In his prepared homily for Palm Sunday, read by Cardinal Leonardo Sandri, the Pope urged the faithful to carry the cross of those suffering in their community. The Mass, which began the solemn observance of Holy Week culminating in Easter Sunday, was led by Sandri, who processed through the square with a beautifully braided palm, symbolizing Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem.

The day also served as a poignant reminder of the suffering leading up to the Crucifixion, commemorated on Good Friday, followed by the celebration of the Resurrection on Easter Sunday.

As the faithful departed from St. Peter’s Square, many carried blessed palm branches or olive branches, marking the significance of the occasion. Previously, during his appearances in recent weeks, Francis has engaged directly with the crowd, sharing moments of personal connection.

The Vatican is being cautious about the Pope’s ability to participate in upcoming Holy Week events. His recent interactions included a private meeting with King Charles III and Queen Camilla of England, but his doctors had suggested he maintain a strict recovery regimen, advising two months of rest.

Father Pablo Rojas, a Vatican spokesperson, reflected on the Pope’s willingness to engage with his flock despite health concerns. “The fact that he is recovering does not mean he cannot make brief appearances. Each time he has come out, he has shown improvements in his condition,” Rojas remarked.

Looking ahead, the Vatican has not yet determined how much of a role Francis will play in the upcoming Holy Week events, which could highlight the continued public interest and concern surrounding his health.