On April 20, 2025, Pope Francis made a poignant appearance on St. Peter's Square, where he was greeted by thousands of applauding believers. The 88-year-old pontiff, visibly affected by his recent health struggles, wished Christendom a "Happy Easter" in Italian, despite his weakened state. This Easter celebration was particularly significant, as the Catholic Church has declared 2025 a Holy Year, drawing an estimated one million visitors to Rome from around the globe.
Despite concerns over his ability to participate due to a life-threatening respiratory illness that required a lengthy hospital stay, Pope Francis managed to deliver the traditional "Urbi et Orbi" blessing (to the city and the world). However, he did not personally present his Easter message, which was read by his master of ceremonies, Archbishop Diego Giovanni Ravelli.
Pope Francis's Easter message addressed pressing global issues, including a sharp condemnation of antisemitism and the ongoing conflict in Gaza. He expressed solidarity with the suffering Christians in Palestine and Israel, stating, "I express my closeness to the suffering Christians in Palestine and Israel, as well as to the entire Israeli and Palestinian people." His words resonated deeply amid the backdrop of escalating violence in the region.
During his brief address, Pope Francis also highlighted the alarming rise of antisemitism worldwide, describing it as "worrisome." He called for an end to hostilities, urging the warring parties to cease fire, release hostages, and assist those suffering from hunger and longing for peace. "On this day, I wish we could return to hope and trust in our fellow human beings, including those who are not close to us or who come from distant lands with different customs and ways of life," he said.
The Pope's health has been a topic of concern since he was hospitalized earlier this year for bilateral pneumonia, which nearly claimed his life. After spending over a month in the Gemelli Clinic, he returned to the Vatican on March 23, 2025. Doctors had advised him to take it easy, and he was initially expected to refrain from public appearances for two months to avoid further health complications.
In the lead-up to Easter, it was uncertain whether he would be able to partake in the celebrations. He did not participate in the traditional Stations of the Cross procession on Good Friday, marking the first time he missed this event since his papacy began in 2013. His absence from significant liturgical events was a stark reminder of his frail condition.
On the day of the Easter Mass, Pope Francis was driven in a wheelchair onto the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica, where he was met with an outpouring of love and support from the crowd. He greeted them with, "Dear sisters and brothers: Happy Easter," though he spoke with a notably weak voice. Following this, he was taken in the popemobile for a slow drive around the square, where he continued to receive cheers of "Long live the Pope!" from the faithful.
In his Easter message, read aloud by Archbishop Ravelli, Pope Francis emphasized the importance of peace and the necessity of disarmament, stating, "There can be no peace without genuine disarmament!" He highlighted the need for freedom of religion and expression, warning that without these freedoms, true peace cannot exist.
He further urged political leaders to utilize available resources to combat hunger and support initiatives that promote development. "The principle of humanity must never be lost sight of as the cornerstone of our daily actions," he asserted, calling for a more compassionate approach towards those in need.
Pope Francis's meeting with U.S. Vice President JD Vance shortly before the Easter Mass added another layer of significance to the day. The two exchanged Easter greetings, although details of their discussion were not disclosed. The Vatican confirmed that the meeting lasted only a few minutes, taking place at the Pope's residence in the Vatican.
Vance, who converted to Catholicism in 2019, represents a complex relationship between the Vatican and the Trump administration, which has often been a point of contention for Pope Francis. The Pope has previously criticized U.S. immigration policies and the treatment of migrants, reiterating his commitment to advocating for the marginalized.
This Easter celebration, marked by both solemnity and hope, served as a reminder of the resilience of faith in the face of adversity. The Pope's presence, despite his frailty, was a testament to his dedication to his flock and the message of peace that he continues to champion.
As the world grapples with ongoing conflicts and humanitarian crises, Pope Francis's call for compassion, understanding, and action resonates now more than ever. His Easter message not only reflects the struggles of many but also offers a vision for a more peaceful and united world.
In a time when division seems prevalent, Pope Francis's words serve as a beacon of hope, urging humanity to come together and work towards a brighter future for all.
