Pope Francis Greets Thousands After Palm Sunday Mass, Showing Signs of Recovery

Pope Francis was back in Saint Peter's Square this Palm Sunday, extending his wishes for a "Happy Palm Sunday and Happy Holy Week" to a sea of about 40,000 faithful, according to Vatican News. The pontiff, still recovering from a serious bout of double pneumonia, appeared in good spirits as he greeted the crowd from his wheelchair for roughly ten minutes. He even took time to chat with some especially enthusiastic nuns—because let's face it, nothing brightens a pope's day like a group of giddy sisters.

This Sunday marked a notable improvement in Francis' health; unlike last week, there was no oxygen hose in sight. The 88-year-old pope had only recently been discharged from the hospital on March 23, after a harrowing five-week battle with a lung infection that, according to his doctor, nearly claimed his life. It seems he's taking the advice to "limit exposure to the elements" quite seriously, and who could blame him after that ordeal?

Cardinal Leonardo Sandri presided over the mass and read the pope's homily, officially launching Holy Week—a period commemorating the passion, death, and resurrection of Jesus. As is tradition, worshippers emerged from the square holding blessed palm fronds and olive branches, a vibrant sign that spring (and faith) are both alive and well in Rome.

While the Vatican is still figuring out what role Francis will take in the rest of Holy Week's events, the pope made sure to thank the crowd for their prayers. In a message delivered by the Holy See Press Office, he shared, "At this time of physical weakness, they help me to feel God's closeness, compassion and tenderness even more. I, too, am praying for you, and I ask you to entrust all those who suffer to the Lord together with me."

Looks like for now, the Vatican is keeping everyone guessing about how much more we’ll be seeing of Francis in this critical week for Catholics worldwide. But if today’s appearance is any indication, he’s not ready to give up his front-row seat to history just yet.