Despite recovering from pneumonia and doctors advising rest, Pope Francis delighted crowds on Palm Sunday with a surprise tour of St. Peter’s Square. The 88-year-old pontiff, appearing in good spirits and without his usual breathing aid, greeted worshippers from his wheelchair, handing out sweets to children and shaking hands.
This marks the second Sunday in a row the Pope has left his Vatican residence since his longest hospital stay. His outings, which have not been listed on the official Vatican schedule, included visits to Saint Peter’s Basilica, the tomb of Pius X, and the Santa Maria Maggiore basilica.
Last week, he also held a private meeting with King Charles III and Queen Camilla after their original visit was postponed due to his illness.
While his involvement in the upcoming Easter celebrations remains uncertain, the Pope shared his gratitude for prayers during his Angelus message and repeated his ongoing call for global peace.