A quiet, prayerful gesture from Pope Francis this week has captured the attention of Catholics worldwide. On Thursday, the Holy Father made an unexpected visit to St. Peter’s Basilica, appearing in a wheelchair, wrapped in a blanket and dressed in a simple white undershirt and black pants—without his usual papal vestments. This rare and humble appearance drew the faithful’s gaze and prompted a health update from the Vatican the following day.
According to Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni, the 88-year-old pontiff “simply wanted to get some air” and then spontaneously chose to visit the basilica “as he was” in order to pray at the tomb of Pope St. Pius X and before the Chair of St. Peter (as reported by Catholic News Agency, April 2025).
Photographs show Pope Francis being escorted by his personal nurse and health aides, with nasal tubes supplying supplemental oxygen. His choice to forego the traditional white cassock and zucchetto in favor of more modest attire highlights the ongoing seriousness of his condition—and his desire to remain close to the People of God even in physical weakness.
Pope Francis made a surprise visit to St Peter’s Basilica in a wheelchair while using his oxygen cannula. It was the first time he has been seen without his papal attire.
— EWTN Vatican (@EWTNVatican) April 10, 2025
Let’s keep praying for his recovery!
🎥: @cruxstationalis#popefrancis #catholicchurch #stpetersbasilica pic.twitter.com/LMrkzwpN29
This marks the third surprising public moment from the Holy Father in a week. On Sunday, he briefly greeted pilgrims during the Vatican’s Jubilee of the Sick, and on Wednesday, the Vatican released images of a private audience between Pope Francis and Britain’s King Charles III.
Despite his limited public appearances, the Holy See Press Office confirmed on Friday that “Francis continues to receive supplemental oxygen, especially at night,” but that he is now able to go for “prolonged periods” without it. The Vatican further noted that the Holy Father’s “convalescence is progressing steadily.” He is currently undergoing respiratory and motor physiotherapy, and is using oxygen “therapeutically” but with decreasing frequency (Catholic News Agency, April 2025).
The pope has also resumed receiving a few select visitors, including Archbishop Edgar Peña Parra, sostituto for the Secretariat of State; Archbishop Paul Gallagher, secretary for relations with states; and Monsignor Luciano Russo, who oversees the Vatican’s diplomatic personnel.
Still, concerns linger. The Vatican acknowledged that although Pope Francis is showing “slight improvements in voice and mobility,” the infection that initially led to his hospitalization has not been fully resolved. As a result, he remains under “constant” medical supervision at his residence in Casa Santa Marta.
With Holy Week fast approaching, many Catholics are wondering whether Pope Francis will be able to lead or participate in the upcoming liturgies. At this time, Argentine Cardinal Leonardo Sandri, vice dean of the College of Cardinals, is scheduled to preside over Palm Sunday Mass on behalf of the pope.
Vatican officials say that the Holy Father continues to concelebrate daily Mass privately and that a decision regarding his involvement in the Easter Triduum will be made “at the last minute,” with an update expected early next week.
As we journey through Lent and approach the mystery of the Passion, Death, and Resurrection of our Lord, Pope Francis’ quiet suffering and perseverance offer a poignant reflection of Christ’s own path. Let us continue to pray for the Holy Father’s healing and strength in this time of illness, trusting in God’s providence and mercy.
