Pope Francis Discharged, Makes First Public Appearance
Pope Francis made a triumphant return to the public eye on Sunday March 23 emerging from Gemelli Hospital in Rome more than five weeks after being hospitalized for bilateral pneumonia. The 88-year-old pontiff’s appearance marked a moment of relief and joy for the catholic faithful and his supporters.
Prior to his appearance, hospital officials confirmed that plans were in place for the pope to greet the public from a window. As he appeared, seated in a wheelchair, Francis waved to the gathered crowd and spoke in a faint voice, saying, “To all… and I see a woman with yellow flowers… She is ‘brava,’ good.” He then made a sign of the cross before waving to the crowd once more.
The crowd responded with enthusiastic cheers of “Francesco! Francesco!” as the pontiff was wheeled away, a testament to the affection felt for him among his followers.
Throughout the morning, the area outside the hospital had been filled with well-wishers while many others gathered in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican to watch the pope’s greeting on large television screens. According to the Vatican, Pope Francis has been in stable condition for the past two weeks.
Following his brief public appearance, the pope’s motorcade, consisting of at least seven vehicles, departed from the hospital. He was seen in the front seat of a white Fiat 500, driving back to the Vatican where he will continue his recovery.
This public appearance has lifted spirits among the faithful and signifies a hopeful step towards the pope’s continued engagement with the global community.
