Pope Francis Delivers Easter Blessing Urbi et Orbi

Pope Francis, despite health challenges, made an appearance on Easter Sunday to deliver the traditional Urbi et Orbi blessing to tens of thousands of faithful gathered at St. Peter's Square. The 88-year-old Pontiff, who recently recovered from a serious lung infection, addressed the crowd from the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica, offering greetings and a brief blessing in a subdued voice.

Prior to his public address, Pope Francis met for a short discussion with U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance at the Vatican. Following the meeting, he was transported to the balcony in a wheelchair, where he greeted the assembled crowd with a heartfelt "Happy Easter," eliciting enthusiastic cheers of "Long live the Pope!"

Due to his recent hospitalization, where he spent several days receiving treatment for pneumonia, Pope Francis did not attend the Easter Mass, which was instead led by Cardinal Angelo Comastri. His Easter message was conveyed by his Master of Ceremonies, Archbishop Diego Giovanni Ravelli, who read the heartfelt address on behalf of the Pope.

In his message, Pope Francis expressed deep concern over ongoing conflicts and the rise of antisemitism around the world. He extended his solidarity to the suffering Christians in both Palestine and Israel and emphasized the urgent need for peace in the region. The Pope noted the distressing humanitarian situation in Gaza, calling for an immediate cessation of hostilities and for the release of hostages.

In his plea for peace, Pope Francis highlighted the alarming increase in antisemitic sentiments globally. He lamented the suffering brought on by the violent conflict in Gaza, urging all parties involved to stop the violence, free captives, and provide assistance to those in dire need.

The Pontiff also called for prayers for Christian communities in Lebanon and Syria, as well as for the people of Yemen, who are enduring one of the worst humanitarian crises in the world due to prolonged war. Additionally, he advocated for peace efforts in Ukraine, the South Caucasus, the Western Balkans, and other regions in Africa, especially in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Sudan, and South Sudan.

Furthermore, Pope Francis reflected on the importance of religious freedom, stating that lasting peace cannot be achieved without respect for the freedom of belief and expression. He cautioned against the arms race that often accompanies nations' claims to defend themselves, emphasizing that the true instruments of peace are those that foster life and development rather than destruction.

As the global Christian community celebrates Easter this year, the Pope pointed out that for the first time, both Eastern and Western churches are observing the holiday on the same date. He expressed hope that the light of Easter would shine upon the Holy Land and the entire world, fostering a spirit of unity and peace.