In a surprise appearance, Pope Francis returned to public view on Sunday for the first time since his prolonged hospital stay, rolling into St. Peter’s Square in a wheelchair to the warm applause of a waiting crowd.

The 88-year-old pontiff, who had been recovering from a serious case of double pneumonia, had not been seen in public since March 23, when he briefly addressed supporters outside Rome’s Gemelli hospital following a five-week stay—his most critical health scare since becoming pope 12 years ago.

Emerging unannounced just before noon at the conclusion of a Mass marking the Catholic Church’s Jubilee year, Francis appeared under sunny skies at the Vatican’s central altar. Smiling broadly and waving to the gathered faithful, he offered a soft but steady greeting.

"Happy Sunday to everyone," he said, his voice raspy but clearer than during his last appearance, as he spoke with the aid of a nasal oxygen tube. “Thank you so much.”

The pope, who customarily delivers a weekly address in the square each Sunday, had not resumed this tradition since February 9—days before he was hospitalized with bronchitis that escalated into pneumonia. Given his previous lung condition (he had a portion of one lung removed as a young man due to pleurisy), doctors treated the situation as life-threatening.

So dire was his condition at one point during the 38-day hospital stay that doctors nearly halted treatment, considering palliative care to allow him a peaceful passing, according to the head of his medical team.

Sunday’s Mass was dedicated to honoring both the sick and the healthcare workers who support them. In a message shared by the Vatican shortly after the Mass concluded, Francis reflected on his own experience in the hospital. "I felt the nearness of God," he wrote. "I pray that everyone suffering might feel that same embrace, and that caregivers may be strengthened in their compassion."

The Vatican has offered no timeline for the pope’s public return beyond Sunday’s appearance. With Easter approaching on April 20, it remains uncertain whether he will be well enough to lead the festivities. For now, his calendar has been cleared of obligations, and doctors have advised a full two months of rest at his Vatican residence.

Due to the pope’s health, a planned meeting with King Charles III—who is visiting Italy next week—has been canceled. Vatican officials have yet to confirm if the pontiff will resume duties in time for Holy Week or participate in person during Easter, the most sacred celebration in the Christian calendar.