Pope Francis made a surprise reappearance in public on 10 April, Thursday, at St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican, despite his ongoing convalescence. The Pope arrived in a wheelchair around 12:30 p.m. local time and was seen wearing dark pants and a T-shirt covered with a striped blanket, rather than his usual white cassock and skullcap.
The Pope went directly to the monumental Chair of St. Peter, a symbol of the episcopal authority of the first Pope in history. The Chair, which was recently restored as part of the Jubilee of Hope, is a significant relic preserved behind the altar of the basilica. Pope Francis observed the restoration work and then proceeded to the tomb of Saint Pius X, where he remained in silence for a few minutes.
During his visit, Pope Francis took the opportunity to greet several faithful and tourists present at the basilica, as well as the restorers working on the conservation works. This was his second public appearance since his return to the Vatican on March 23, following a 38-day stay at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital.
The Pope’s visit was unexpected, as it was initially announced that he would not make public appearances or receive visitors during his convalescence. However, Pope Francis has already surprised everyone twice, first by participating in the Jubilee for the Sick last Sunday and now with this visit to St. Peter’s Basilica. Despite his health challenges, the Pope continues to show his commitment to his ministry and his desire to connect with the faithful.