In a heartfelt Easter message, Pope Francis underscores peace and freedom while addressing global conflicts from his balcony at the Vatican.
Pope Francis Celebrates Easter from Wheelchair After Health Battle
Pope Francis Celebrates Easter from Wheelchair After Health Battle
The 88-year-old pontiff greets worshippers at St. Peter's Square following his recent recovery from pneumonia.
In a much-anticipated appearance, Pope Francis greeted thousands of worshippers in St. Peter's Square, wishing them a "Happy Easter" from his wheelchair. At 88 years old, the pontiff has recently recovered from a serious illness, having spent five weeks in the hospital due to an infection that resulted in double pneumonia. His Easter address was delivered by a clergy member as Pope Francis sat beside him, looking frail yet determined.
As he waved to the enthusiastic crowd, he emphasized the importance of peace and freedom of religion, stating, "There can be no peace without freedom of religion, freedom of thought, freedom of expression and respect for the views of others." He also expressed concern over the ongoing conflicts across the globe, particularly emphasizing the dire situation in Gaza, where ongoing strife has devastated local communities, including Christians.
The Pope's remarks extended to global antisemitism, calling it a "worrisome" development and advocating for peace among both Israeli and Palestinian peoples. In a powerful plea, he urged conflicting parties in the Ukraine war to seek a just and lasting peace.
Earlier in the week, the pontiff had made brief appearances ahead of the Easter celebrations, which drew tens of thousands of faithful to Rome. This year's jubilee, a special event occurring every 25 years, has seen heightened interest with millions of pilgrims flocking to the city. While this year's observance was marked by the Pope's absence from several traditional Holy Week events, he did manage to hold small gatherings in the lead-up to Easter.
During his hospitalization, doctors noted that he faced serious health risks but never required intubation. Known for overcoming health challenges throughout his life, including lung surgery as a young adult, Pope Francis remains a figure of resilience. In a notable moment on Easter Sunday, U.S. Vice-President JD Vance also had a private meeting with the Pope, discussing issues such as freedom of religion and humanitarian crises in war-afflicted nations.
With ongoing challenges surrounding health and global strife, the Pope continues to advocate for unity and compassion as he moves forward in his mission.
As he waved to the enthusiastic crowd, he emphasized the importance of peace and freedom of religion, stating, "There can be no peace without freedom of religion, freedom of thought, freedom of expression and respect for the views of others." He also expressed concern over the ongoing conflicts across the globe, particularly emphasizing the dire situation in Gaza, where ongoing strife has devastated local communities, including Christians.
The Pope's remarks extended to global antisemitism, calling it a "worrisome" development and advocating for peace among both Israeli and Palestinian peoples. In a powerful plea, he urged conflicting parties in the Ukraine war to seek a just and lasting peace.
Earlier in the week, the pontiff had made brief appearances ahead of the Easter celebrations, which drew tens of thousands of faithful to Rome. This year's jubilee, a special event occurring every 25 years, has seen heightened interest with millions of pilgrims flocking to the city. While this year's observance was marked by the Pope's absence from several traditional Holy Week events, he did manage to hold small gatherings in the lead-up to Easter.
During his hospitalization, doctors noted that he faced serious health risks but never required intubation. Known for overcoming health challenges throughout his life, including lung surgery as a young adult, Pope Francis remains a figure of resilience. In a notable moment on Easter Sunday, U.S. Vice-President JD Vance also had a private meeting with the Pope, discussing issues such as freedom of religion and humanitarian crises in war-afflicted nations.
With ongoing challenges surrounding health and global strife, the Pope continues to advocate for unity and compassion as he moves forward in his mission.
