With poor health and still recovering from a pneumonia picture, Pope Francis appeared on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican on Sunday morning (20). “Dear brothers and sisters, good Easter,” he said panting before the crowd that applauded him. In the traditional blessing “Urbi et orbi” (for the city and the world), the high pontiff sent a message of peace to the Middle East and defended religious freedom.
“I express my proximity to the sufferings … of all the Israeli people and the Palestinian people,” said the Pope’s speech, who was read by an advisor.
For the first time, since the beginning of his papacy, Pope Francis has not celebrated the Easter Mass, which was led by Italian Cardinal Angelo Comastri. Because of the poor health, he also did not participate in most of the events of Holy Week. Yesterday, he also made a brief public appearance at the São Pedro Basilica to greet faithful and distribute sweets to the children.
After today’s speech, Francisco took the first Paparmobile ride since he was discharged from hospitalization and circulated through St. Peter’s Square amid the faithful.
(with international agencies)
