Pope Francis delivered the traditional Easter blessing on Sunday from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, drawing cheers from joyful crowds following a brief meeting with U.S. Vice President JD Vance—his most high-profile public appearance since his recent hospitalization.
Although the 88-year-old pontiff has not presided over the main Holy Week and Easter services, he made several brief appearances over the weekend. On Thursday, he spent half an hour visiting a Rome prison, and on Saturday evening, he visited St. Peter’s Basilica.
Francis, who spent 38 days in the hospital battling double pneumonia and came close to death, continues to suffer from respiratory issues that limit his ability to speak for extended periods. He is currently undergoing physiotherapy to help recover his voice and also struggles to raise his arms.
Despite these challenges, the pope was able to offer the “Urbi et Orbi” blessing—Latin for “to the City [of Rome] and to the World”—on Easter Sunday, with an aide reading the full address. This special blessing, which only the pope can give, includes an indulgence or remission of the effects of sin.
His voice was faint but clear as he greeted the faithful with a simple “Brothers and Sisters, Happy Easter,” notably without the nasal cannula he had previously used for oxygen support. Later, he rode through St. Peter’s Square in the popemobile, waving to the cheering crowd—a first since his recovery.