Pope's surprise visit uplifts the faithful at St. Peter's Square

What do you need to know?

• Pope Francis unexpectedly arrived at St. Peter's Square on Sunday, surprising the gathered faithful.
• The event took place during the Mass for the sick and healthcare workers, organised on the occasion of the Holy Year.
• Despite wearing a nasal cannula for oxygen, the Pope greeted those assembled with the 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 unexpectedly appeared at the end of the Mass for the sick and healthcare workers.

Pope Francis's appearance in St. Peter's Square caused a great stir among those gathered. The faithful, surprised by his presence, welcomed him with enthusiasm and loud applause.

The Vatican had not previously 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 delegate read his homily. "Today's liturgy invites us to renew, on the path of Lent, our trust in God, who is always present, ready to save us. Neither exile, violence, sin, nor any other life realities can prevent him from standing at our doors and knocking, ready to enter as soon as we allow him," the Pope conveyed.

"Certainly, illness is one of the most difficult and harsh life challenges, where we tangibly feel our weakness," emphasised Francis. "Even in such moments, God does not leave us alone, and if we entrust ourselves to him, right there, where our strength wanes, we can experience the comfort of his presence."

"Dear doctors, nurses, and medical staff members, when you care for your patients, especially the weakest ones, the Lord offers you the opportunity to continuously renew your lives, nourishing them with gratitude, mercy, and hope. He calls you to illuminate them with the humble awareness that nothing is taken for granted and that everything is a gift from God; to nourish them with the humanity experienced when you let appearances fall, leaving what really matters: small and great gestures of love," Francis wrote.

He also addressed the sick: "In turn, with you, dear sick brothers and sisters, I share in this moment of my life: the experience of illness, the feeling of weakness, dependence on others in many matters, the need for support."