Pope Francis is set to inspire Catholics worldwide during Easter celebrations at the Vatican, just weeks after a severe bout of pneumonia left him hospitalized. The 88-year-old pontiff, who was discharged on March 23 after a 38-day hospital stay, is expected to deliver the traditional “Urbi et Orbi” benediction from Saint Peter’s Square at midday—a highlight of the Christian calendar.
Although his participation in the full Easter events remains uncertain, the Holy See has indicated his likely presence, depending on his health. While the Pope has made recent public appearances without the nasal cannula used for oxygen, he may delegate the reading of his Easter message, which typically addresses global conflicts and humanitarian crises.
This Easter marks the first time since his 2013 election that Pope Francis has missed most Holy Week events, including Good Friday’s Stations of the Cross and the Easter Vigil. However, his brief appearance at Saint Peter’s Basilica on Saturday, where he greeted pilgrims, offered hope about his recovery.
Saint Peter’s Square will host over 300 clergy members and thousands of flowers for the Easter Mass, expected to draw larger crowds due to the Jubilee Year—a rare “Holy Year” observed every 25 years. Adding to the occasion, U.S. Vice President JD Vance is in Rome, having met with Vatican officials over the weekend.
During Holy Week, Pope Francis adhered to doctors’ orders to rest, with his sole engagement being a quiet visit to a Roman prison. When asked about his condition, he responded with a smile, “I am living it as best I can.” This year’s Easter is particularly significant as it unites Catholic, Protestant, and Orthodox Christians in a rare alignment of calendars, symbolizing unity across traditions.