• Source:JND
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Pope Francis made a surprise public appearance on Sunday, marking his return to the spotlight two weeks after being discharged from the hospital following a serious battle with double pneumonia. The 88-year-old pontiff was wheeled into St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican, drawing cheers and applause from the crowd gathered for a Lenten Mass.

“Good Sunday to everyone,” Pope Francis told the faithful, lifting his hands to wave at them as he was brought to the front of the altar in a wheelchair. “Thank you very much,” he added, smiling warmly and appearing in notably stronger spirits than during previous outings.

Sign Of Strength And Recovery

The Pope’s voice, though still soft, sounded stronger compared to his brief remarks outside Rome’s Gemelli hospital on March 23, the day he was released after a five-week stay. During that time, the Pope’s condition had worsened due to double pneumonia, with doctors later revealing that he had come dangerously close to death.

On Sunday, Francis wore a nasal cannula to aid his breathing but looked visibly more energised. His appearance was not announced in advance, making it an emotional and welcome surprise for worshippers in the square. The Pope arrived shortly before noon, following the celebration of a special Mass tied to preparations for the Catholic Church’s upcoming Jubilee year.

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Faithful Show Support With Cheers And Chants

Crowds erupted into applause and cheers upon seeing him, with many chanting “Francesco, Francesco!” and “We love you!” in scenes reminiscent of his earlier appearance at Gemelli hospital. At that time, Pope Francis had greeted some 3,000 faithful from a small hospital balcony, offering a brief blessing and thanks before waving to the people gathered below.

Before that hospital appearance, the Pope had also taken time to personally thank the medical staff and leadership of the Policlinico Agostino Gemelli, expressing his gratitude for their care during his illness.

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