Pope Francis surprises faithful at St. Peter's despite illness
Pope Francis unexpectedly appeared in St. Peter's Square, surprising thousands of worshippers during the mass dedicated to the sick and healthcare workers.
What do you need to know?
- Pope Francis unexpectedly arrived at St. Peter's Square on Sunday, catching the gathered faithful off guard.
- The event took place during the mass for the sick and healthcare workers, organized in celebration of the Holy Year.
- Despite wearing a nasal cannula for oxygen, the Pope greeted the assembly with these words: "Happy Sunday to all of you, thank you very much."
- Happy Sunday to all of you, thank you very much - said the Pope, who is recovering from a severe illness, as he made his unexpected appearance at the end of the mass for the sick and healthcare workers.
Pope Francis surprised the faithful at St. Peter's Square
The appearance of Pope Francis in St. Peter's Square caused quite a stir among the gathered crowd. The faithful, taken aback by his presence, welcomed him with enthusiasm and loud applause.
The Vatican had not announced Pope Francis's presence at this celebration, making his appearance a complete surprise. Even though the Pope had a nasal oxygen cannula, he chose to personally greet the faithful.
During the mass, the Pope's representative read his homily. "Today's liturgy invites us to renew, along the path of Lent, our trust in God, who is always near, ready to save us. Neither exile, violence, sin, nor any other life challenges can prevent him from standing at our door and knocking, ready to enter whenever we allow him," the Pope conveyed.
"Certainly, illness is one of the most challenging aspects of life, where we keenly feel our weaknesses," emphasized Francis. "Even in such moments, God does not leave us alone, and if we trust in him, right where our strength falters, we can experience the consolation of his presence."
"Dear doctors, nurses, and medical staff, when you care for your patients, especially the most vulnerable, the Lord offers you the chance to continually renew your lives, enriching them with gratitude, mercy, and hope. He calls you to illuminate them with the humble awareness that nothing is given and that everything is a gift from God; to nourish them with the humanity that comes from letting go of appearances, focusing on what truly matters: small and significant acts of love," Francis wrote.
He also addressed the sick: "In turn, with you, dear sick brothers and sisters, I share so much at this time in my life: the experience of illness, the feeling of weakness, dependence on others for many needs, and the requirement for support."
