By Courtney Mares
Vatican City, Apr 11, 2025 / 09:38 am
After Pope Francis surprised pilgrims by appearing inside St. Peter’s Basilica in a wheelchair, draped in a blanket and wearing a white undershirt and black pants, the Vatican provided an update on the 88-year-old pontiff’s ongoing recovery.
The pope, who has been mostly absent from public life since his release from Rome’s Gemelli Hospital nearly three weeks ago, was spotted in the basilica with nasal tubes delivering oxygen, accompanied by his personal nurse and health aides.
A Vatican spokesperson informed reporters on Friday morning that the pope had wanted some fresh air and decided to extend his time outside his Vatican residence by visiting the basilica to pray at the tomb of Pope Pius X and before the Chair of St. Peter.
The Holy See Press Office confirmed that Francis still requires supplemental oxygen, especially at night, but he can now go for extended periods without it.
This appearance marked the third unexpected event by the pope this week, following the release of photos from a private audience with Britain’s King Charles III and a brief greeting to pilgrims in St. Peter’s Square during the Vatican’s Jubilee of the Sick.
According to the Vatican, the pope’s recovery is progressing steadily.
