VATICAN CITY — On Palm Sunday, Pope Francis made a heartfelt appearance in St. Peter’s Square, addressing a crowd of over 20,000 followers with warm wishes for a “Good Palm Sunday” and a “good Holy Week.” This public moment served as a reassuring sign of his recovery following a serious battle with double pneumonia.
The 88-year-old pope, who was brought to the altar in a wheelchair, received a warm reception as many in the audience stretched out their hands to touch him. Notably, he did not require nasal tubes for oxygen, marking a significant improvement since his last public appearance.
While returning to St. Peter’s Basilica, the pope took time to bless a rosary and shared some candy with a young boy who greeted him. Although he has been advised to rest and avoid large gatherings during his recovery, his eagerness to connect with the faithful was evident.
This marked his second appearance in St. Peter’s Square since his hospitalization in February. Earlier in the week, he met privately with King Charles III and Queen Camilla and took an unscheduled tour of St. Peter’s Basilica, expressing gratitude to restorers who worked on its masterpieces.
Before Holy Week commenced, Francis visited the St. Mary Major Basilica for a quiet moment of prayer before a cherished icon of the Virgin Mary. This basilica is significant to him, often being his first stop upon returning from trips abroad and following his release from the hospital.
During his Sunday blessing, the pope expressed his gratitude for the prayers of the faithful, stating that their support helps him feel God’s presence and love, especially during times of physical fragility. His greetings were delivered in written format as he continues to recover.
Pope Francis also took a moment to offer prayers for various global conflicts, including the ongoing violence in Sudan and Lebanon, as well as for peace in regions like Ukraine, the Middle East, and South Sudan. In a homily read by a high-ranking cardinal, he encouraged the faithful to bear the burdens of those who are suffering in their communities as they enter this solemn week.
The Palm Sunday ceremony featured a procession led by Cardinal Leonardo Sandri, who carried a beautifully braided palm in remembrance of Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem. The stark contrast between the initial joy and the suffering that was to come—culminating in Good Friday and Easter—was a poignant reminder of the Christian faith.
The gathering concluded with attendees walking away from St. Peter’s Square, proudly carrying their blessed palm fronds and olive branches to commemorate this significant event in the Christian calendar.
