Pope Francis Shows Signs of Recovery from Pneumonia, Possible Public Appearance on Sunday

Pope Francis Recovering from Pneumonia, May Reappear for Angelus Prayer This Sunday

VATICAN CITY – Pope Francis is reportedly making gradual progress in his recovery from severe pneumonia, with the Vatican suggesting that the 88-year-old pontiff might make a public appearance this weekend for the traditional Sunday Angelus prayer.

After spending five weeks in Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, the Holy Father was discharged on March 23 and is currently recuperating at his residence in the Vatican. Doctors have recommended at least two months of rest and rehabilitation.

Over the past seven Sundays, Pope Francis has delivered the Angelus prayer through written messages instead of his usual live appearances at the Apostolic Palace window overlooking St. Peter’s Square. However, the Vatican press office hinted on Friday that this weekend’s Angelus "could be held differently than in previous Sundays," promising further updates on Saturday.

The latest health update from the Vatican reveals "slight improvements" in the Pope’s breathing, motor functions, and voice, all of which had been significantly affected by the pneumonia that impacted both lungs. His blood test results also show marginal improvement, and his dependency on oxygen has slightly decreased.

The Pope, who has led the Catholic Church since 2013, reportedly came close to death twice during his recent hospital stay. Since being discharged, he has made only one public appearance—briefly greeting supporters from a hospital balcony in a weakened state before departing by car, with a breathing tube still visible in his nose.

Despite his health challenges, the Vatican confirmed that Pope Francis remains engaged with his duties. He continues to work privately and has attended religious events via videolink, including a Friday sermon and a Wednesday mass commemorating the 20th anniversary of Pope John Paul II’s passing.

The Vatican has stated that it is still too early to confirm whether Pope Francis will participate in the upcoming Easter celebrations, which fall on April 20 this year.