Pope Francis returns to Vatican - making his first public appearance in 5 weeks

POPE Francis has returned to the Vatican after spending five weeks recovering from a severe case of double pneumonia. 

The 88-year-old pontiff, appearing frail, made a brief stop at his favourite basilica before heading back to his residence.  

Following a 38-day hospital stay due to a bronchitis-related illness, doctors have advised Francis to rest for at least two months as he continues his recovery. 

Dr Sergio Alfieri, the head of medical and surgical services at Gemelli Hospital, revealed that the pope’s condition had reached a critical point on two occasions during his treatment.  

“From his hospital room, Pope Francis has reminded us that every moment of life is precious and that, at any time, it may be asked of us,” the Vatican stated.  

Despite his weak condition, the Pope addressed a gathering of around 3,000 people outside his 10th-floor hospital suite. Seated in a wheelchair, he offered a short blessing to the faithful who had assembled to see him. 

“Thank you to everyone!” he said in a faint voice, according to the Vatican. While he had originally planned to deliver a formal address, the statement explained that he instead chose to “greet them more with his presence than with his voice, which remains affected by ongoing respiratory therapies.”  

As he appeared at the window, the crowd erupted in cheers, chanting “Viva il Papa!” and “Papa Francesco.”  

This was the first public sighting of the Pope since he was admitted to hospital on February 14 due to bronchitis. Doctors later diagnosed him with a severe respiratory infection caused by bacterial, viral, and fungal pathogens, which ultimately led to pneumonia in both lungs.  

Pilgrims gathered in St Peter’s Square applauded and cheered as his hospital greeting was broadcast on large screens. While he has been discharged, the pope remains on medication to treat a milder respiratory condition.