Pope Francis Returns in Joy: A Resilient Pontiff Brings Hope and Peace on Easter Sunday
Pope Francis made a triumphant return to St. Peter’s Square on Easter Sunday, greeting tens of thousands of faithful from his open-air popemobile for the first time since recovering from double pneumonia. The 88-year-old pontiff, seated in a raised chair, waved warmly as crowds cheered, “Viva il Papa!”—their voices ringing with love and relief. Adorned with vibrant Easter flowers, the square became a scene of jubilation as papal aides presented babies for his blessing. Though still limiting his movements on doctors’ orders, Francis radiated joy, his hands gently raised in gestures of peace and goodwill.
Despite not presiding over the Easter Mass, the pope delivered his powerful Urbi et Orbi message, calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and condemning the “dramatic and deplorable” humanitarian crisis. He urged Hamas to release hostages and decried rising antisemitism while expressing solidarity with both Israelis and Palestinians. Earlier, he shared a brief meeting with U.S. Vice President JD Vance, exchanging Easter greetings in a moment of unity. As the world watched, Francis—once gravely ill—stood as a beacon of resilience, compassion, and unwavering hope.
“Dear Lord, guide us toward peace and healing,” he prayed—a heartfelt plea echoing across the globe.
