Pope Francis made a heartfelt return to St Peter’s Square for a special Jubilee Mass dedicated to the sick and health workers, marking his first public appearance at the Vatican in two weeks following his recovery from pneumonia. Pushed in a wheelchair, the beloved pontiff waved to the cheering crowd, whose delighted exclamations of “I see the Pope!” echoed around the square as he was visibly welcomed back.
Upon arrival, Francis addressed the crowd, saying, “Good Sunday to everyone,” testing his microphone before expressing his gratitude for the support during his recovery. His voice sounded stronger than on his release day from the Gemelli hospital, where he had been recuperating for five weeks. Although still reliant on supplemental oxygen through nasal tubes, which the Vatican confirmed are being gradually reduced, the Pope showcased his resilience.
His movements, however, were somewhat limited – attributed by his doctor to a previous trauma rather than his recent illness. After the Mass, he interacted with some of the participants, who respectfully bowed to kiss his hands in appreciation.
In his homily, delivered by Archbishop Rino Fisichella, the Pope shared insights from his experience with sickness, connecting deeply with the vulnerable in attendance. He spoke of the challenges of infirmity and the strength found in leaning on others for support. “It is not easy,” he remarked, “but it is a school in which we learn to love and to be loved.”
Pope Francis urged the faithful to view illness not as a burden but as an opportunity to cultivate hope and growth, emphasising the importance of not ostracising pain or the vulnerable in society. He also expressed support for healthcare workers facing difficulties in inadequate conditions, acknowledging their vital mission and the need for respect and assistance.
The unexpected nature of his appearance left many attendees touched, with some like Pasquale Citrolo from Sicily expressing how his presence felt like a gift. Linda Elezi from Ancona echoed this sentiment, describing how the Pope’s prayers foster a sense of peace and connection among the faithful.
Overall, the Pope’s return to St Peter’s Square not only marked a significant moment of hope for his recovery but also served as a poignant reminder of the shared human experiences of love, vulnerability, and resilience during times of hardship.