Pope Francis: blessed Easter despite serious illness!

Pope Francis: blessed Easter despite serious illness!

Petersplatz, 00120 Rom, Italien - On April 20, 2025, Pope Francis donated the traditional Easter blessing himself after recovering from a serious illness. The meeting took place under cool, cloudy sky, but on time for the Easter Sunday service at 10.30 a.m. the sun showed up. Because of his health, the 88-year-old Pope appeared in a wheelchair, looked struck and spoke in a weak voice. He welcomed the believers with the words: "Dear brothers and sisters, a happy blessed Easter."

The big Easter mass, however, was celebrated without it. The service was led by Cardinal Angelo Comastri. Before he spoke the blessing, Pope Francis President Jd Vance met the Vatican. At this short meeting, which lasted "a few minutes", Easter greetings were exchanged.

Easter message and peace

In his Easter message, which he personally read out, Pope Francis addressed the fears and worries that many people feel in times of war. He particularly pointed out the conflicts in Ukraine and wished the victims peace. "We are not allowed to get used to the war," he said, appealing to the responsibility of the nations to hear the people's cry for peace.

He also reminded of the wounds of Jesus and their deeper meaning for humanity. He passed this on in a moving speech to those present at St. Peter's Square in Rome. Francis asked to let the peace of Christ both into his own life and the world.

a holy year and a million visitors

The year 2025 declared the Catholic Church as a holy year, which again leads to an increase in the number of visitors in Rome. It is estimated this weekend around one million believers from all over the world are expected in the Italian capital. Despite the recovery -related restrictions and the concerns about his health, Pope Francis has aroused the encouragement and hope of many people with his appearances and messages.

The challenges that humanity faces are diverse. The Pope also spoke about the humanitarian crisis in Ethiopia, violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo and the responsibility that everyone has to work for peace. He made this clear for everyone present and encouraged them not to bow to evil and violence.

While Pope Francis has often left a weak impression recently, his message of peace and hope remains a bright spot for many in dark times. His speech on Easter Sunday remains unforgettable and makes it clear how important it is to stand up for peace and love in the world. Tagesschau and Vatican News reported in detail on this special occasion.