Pope Francis makes surprise public appearance after leaving hospital

Pope Francis made an unexpected public appearance on Sunday, marking his first time in view since being discharged from the hospital two weeks ago.

He greeted the crowd at the Vatican with a cheerful demeanor, seated in a wheelchair and using what looked like a nasal cannula to assist with his breathing.

The 88-year-old pope, who was hospitalized for five weeks earlier this year due to pneumonia, was reportedly in a critical condition during that time, with doctors saying he came close to death.

However, he now seems to be in better shape than during his last public appearance, which took place about two weeks before he was discharged from Gemelli Hospital in Rome.

Back then, he had difficulty speaking and lifting his arms, though he managed to wave and give a thumbs-up from a balcony.

On Sunday, he was seen moving his arms more freely. His voice, while still faint, had noticeably improved compared to two weeks earlier.

His appearance was unannounced and came as a surprise.

On Sunday, crowds of worshippers gathered in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican for a routine Lenten mass, unaware that the pope would make an appearance.

His presence came as a surprise to those in attendance.