VATICAN (SE): Pope Francis made a surprise visit to St Peter’s Square at the end of the Mass for the Jubilee of the Sick and Healthcare Workers on April 6, —though he was not scheduled to make any official appearances on Sunday, Vatican News reported.
Passing through the congregation in a wheelchair, the pope reached the altar, where Mass had been celebrated by Archbishop Rino Fisichella, pro-prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelisation.
After the final blessing, Pope Francis addressed the gathered pilgrims with a few simple words: “Have a good Sunday. Thank you all!!”.
Pilgrims expressed their enthusiasm and joy with applause, Vatican News said, with houts of “Viva il Papa” ([Long live the Pope].
Prior to greeting and thanking the faithful, Pope Francis “received the sacrament of reconciliation in St. Peter’s Basilica, recollected himself in prayer and passed through the Holy Door”, according to the Holy See Press Office. Earlier on April 4, it reported that Pope Francis’ state of health was improving slightly, and that the he was in good spirits
