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Even with Poor Health, Pope Francis Attends Easter Celebration in Vatican and Calls for Peace in Gaza Strip, Asking for the Release of Hostages and Immediate End to the War
Even while recovering from a severe pneumonia, Pope Francis, 88, appeared on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica this Easter Sunday. In front of thousands of pilgrims gathered in St. Peter’s Square, he briefly participated in the traditional celebration, while an aide read the “Urbi et Orbi” blessing. The participation was brief but loaded with meaning considering the pontiff’s health condition.
Pope Calls for Ceasefire in the Middle East
During the message, the Pope called for an immediate ceasefire in the Gaza Strip. He condemned the “deplorable humanitarian situation” caused by the 18-month war between Israel and Hamas.
The pontiff stated: “I express my closeness to the sufferings… of all the Israeli people and the Palestinian people.” In addition, he appealed to Hamas to release the hostages still held captive.
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The Pope took the occasion to condemn the rise of antisemitism in the world and reinforced his criticism of Israeli military actions. Prior to his five-week hospitalization at Gemelli Hospital in Rome, Francis had already described the situation in Gaza as “very serious and shameful.”
In the Easter message, he declared: “I appeal to the conflicting parties: declare a ceasefire, release the hostages, and come to the aid of a starving people that aspires to a future of peace.”
Convalescence and Recent Activities
Since being discharged from the hospital on March 23, the Pope has been under medical recommendation for two months of rest. Nevertheless, he has made sporadic appearances.
On Sunday, he was substituted by Cardinal Angelo Comastri in leading the Mass. Recently, he also visited a prison in Rome, but did not perform the traditional foot-washing ritual. When asked by journalists about his health, he replied: “I am living the best way possible.”
Meeting with the Vice President of the United States
Still on Sunday, the Pope had a private meeting with the Vice President of the United States, JD Vance. They exchanged Easter greetings.
The previous Saturday, Vance had already met with the Vatican Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, and with Paul Richard Gallagher, Secretary of the Holy See for Relations with States.
The visit took place two months after tensions between Francis and the Trump administration. The Pope had criticized American plans to deport millions of immigrants and cut social programs.
Francis also rejected Vance’s attempt to use ancient Catholic teachings to justify these policies. In response, he published an open letter to Catholic bishops in the U.S., advocating that the Church think of all, not just the closest.
With information from Al Jazeera.
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