Cnn
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Pope Francis gave the traditional Easter blessing on Sunday, appearing from the Balcony of the Saint-Pierre Basilica in front of the delighted crowd in what marks his most prominent appearance since his exit from the hospital.
The 88-year-old pontiff did not manage the main Holy Week and Easter services, but made brief appearances during the Easter weekend, especially by spending 30 minutes to a prison in Rome on Thursday and a visit to the Saint-Pierre basilica on Saturday evening.
Francis, who spent 38 days in the hospital with a double pneumonia where he came to death, is unable to speak for long periods due to his breathing difficulties and undergoes physiotherapy to help regain his voice. The pope also has trouble raising his arms.
But on Easter Sunday, he was able to offer the blessing “Urbi et Orbi” to the “City (of Rome) and the world”. Only the Pope can offer this blessing which includes the offer of an indulgence, a remission for the effect of sins.
His voice seemed weak but he appeared without the nasal cannula which he wore to receive oxygen.
Before his appearance of Easter Sunday, the Pope had a brief private meeting with vice-president JD Vance.
“Reunion, which lasted a few minutes, made it possible to exchange greetings of Easter,” the Vatican said in a press release.
Since his release from the hospital last month, the Pope has appeared surprised and has shown a determination to resume his duties. The doctors advised him to avoid large crowds during his two -month recovery period.
The Vatican has also published the text of the Pope’s Easter Sunday message where Francis called in the end of the world, especially in Gaza. He deplored the “death and destruction” which had created “a dramatic and deplorable humanitarian situation”.
Francis said: “I appeal to the War Parties: call a ceasefire, release the hostages and I come with the help of a hungry people who aspire to a future of peace!”
