Pope Francis made a surprise appearance at St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City on the 6th (local time). AP=Yonhap News
Having struggled with pneumonia for some time, Pope Francis appeared before the congregation with a breathing tube 2 weeks after being discharged on the 6th (local time).
According to AP News and others, the Pope, who attended a special mass commemorating this year’s Catholic Jubilee, made a surprise appearance in a wheelchair at St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City during midday.
Facing towards the altar at the center of the square, he waved his hand, and the congregation stood up and applauded in unison.
The Pope said, “Wishing everyone a good Sunday,” and expressed his gratitude by saying, “I am really thankful.”
The 88-year-old Pope had been admitted to Gemelli Hospital in Rome, Italy, on February 14 for pneumonia treatment and returned to the Vatican after 37 days on the 23rd of last month.
Upon discharge, Dr. Sergio Alfieri, the surgeon at Gemelli Hospital, recommended “at least two months of rest and rehabilitation for recovery” and advised against contact with outsiders and official engagements for the time being. However, local media speculated that the Pope might engage in external activities soon due to his spontaneous nature and fondness for close communication with others.