Convalescing Pope Francis greeted a crowd of over 20,000 faithful on Palm Sunday, displaying signs of recovery from double pneumonia. Despite doctors advising him to avoid crowds, the 88-year-old Pope made an appearance without nasal tubes for supplemental oxygen. He blessed a rosary and gave candy to a young boy while carefully conserving his energy as he recovers. The Vatican is still deciding on his level of participation in upcoming Holy Week events.
Pope Francis recently met with King Charles III and Queen Camilla and privately prayed at St. Mary Major Basilica before giving his traditional Sunday blessing. He expressed gratitude for the prayers that have helped him feel God’s presence during his physical weakness. The Pope offered prayers for various regions in conflict, including Sudan, Lebanon, Ukraine, the Middle East, Congo, Myanmar, and South Sudan.
In his Palm Sunday homily delivered by Cardinal Leonardo Sandri, the Pope urged believers to carry the burdens of those who suffer, symbolized by the braided palms carried in procession by the cardinals. The observance of Palm Sunday marks the beginning of Holy Week, leading up to Jesus’ crucifixion on Good Friday and resurrection on Easter Sunday.
After the mass, the faithful left St. Peter’s Square with blessed palm fronds and olive branches to symbolize the start of Holy Week. Despite his ongoing recovery, Pope Francis continues to fulfill his spiritual duties while taking necessary precautions to avoid overexertion.
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