Easter at the Vatican: Pope Francis Reappears and Calls for Peace in a Troubled World

Despite his fragile health, Pope Francis addressed the faithful gathered in St. Peter’s Square this Sunday, April 20, during the Easter celebrations. In a world torn by conflict, the Pontiff used this rare public appearance to deliver a powerful message of peace and fraternity.

A Long-Awaited Appearance Amid Ongoing Recovery

One month after being hospitalized for bilateral pneumonia, the 88-year-old Pope appeared in a wheelchair on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica. His presence had been uncertain until the last moment, as concerns over his health persisted. Without oxygen tubes but visibly weakened, he still wished the gathered crowd a heartfelt “Happy Easter” in a soft, emotional voice.

Unable to read his traditional Urbi et Orbi Easter blessing in full, Pope Francis entrusted the task to Cardinal Angelo Comastri. In this solemn message, read from the Vatican balcony, the Pontiff called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, demanded the release of hostages, and urged that urgent humanitarian aid be delivered to the starving population. He also warned of the growing rise in antisemitism worldwide, insisting that peace cannot exist without fundamental freedoms, particularly religious freedom.

A Spiritual and Political Message

Earlier that day, Pope Francis had met privately with U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance at the Santa Marta residence. The brief audience, described as “cordial” by the Vatican, came two months after the Pope sharply criticized former President Donald Trump’s immigration policies. According to an official statement, the meeting was an opportunity for the two men to exchange Easter greetings.

Although the Pope missed several major events of Holy Week — including the Way of the Cross at the Colosseum and the Easter Vigil — he gave signs of recovery on Saturday, making a short visit to pray before an icon of the Virgin Mary inside the basilica. There, he greeted worshippers and handed out sweets to children.

His return to St. Peter’s Square on Easter Sunday concluded with a 15-minute ride through the crowd in the Popemobile — a gesture of closeness from the head of the world’s 1.4 billion Catholics, showing spiritual strength despite physical hardship.