Pope Francis appeared on the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica on Easter Sunday, looking healthy and in good spirits as he addressed the crowds gathered for the important religious occasion. Despite battling respiratory issues including frequent bouts of bronchitis, cold, and flu in recent months, the pope delivered his message without any noticeable interruptions or coughing spells.

The past couple of months have been challenging for Pope Francis, as he has experienced respiratory problems, a chronic cough, and periodic visits to the hospital for lung checks. This has led him to rely on his aides to read speeches for him and cancel private audiences. Last week, during Palm Sunday services, he surprised and concerned followers when he stood in silence for several minutes instead of delivering the expected homily.

However, during his Easter address, the pope's voice, although occasionally hoarse, showed improvement from previous weeks. He did not pause or cough, delivering a strong appeal for global peace, particularly in war-torn regions such as Ukraine and Gaza. He called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, increased humanitarian aid, and the release of all hostages taken in October. Pope Francis emphasized the importance of peace being achieved through dialogue, outstretched hands, and open hearts, rather than through the use of weapons.

The pope's Easter message traditionally focuses on world affairs, and he mentioned several other areas of concern, including Ukraine, Syria, Lebanon, Armenia and Azerbaijan, Haiti, Myanmar, Sudan, the Sahel and Horn of Africa regions, Congo, and Mozambique. He also made an appeal to prevent the spread of violence beyond current conflict zones, expressing concern about the strengthening winds of war reaching Europe and the Mediterranean.

Following the Easter service, Pope Francis took the opportunity to greet the crowd in St. Peter's Square and the avenue connecting St Peter's to the River Tiber. The Vatican estimated that approximately 60,000 people had gathered for the event. Observers noted that the pope's decision to forego the Palm Sunday homily seemed to be a spiritual choice rather than a sign of deteriorating health.

Concerns about Pope Francis' declining health have been ongoing since 2021 when he underwent surgery to have part of his colon removed. Additionally, he faced abdominal surgery in June 2023 to remove internal scar tissue. Mobility issues, including sciatica and severe knee pain, have required the pope to use a cane and wheelchair. In November, he had to withdraw from a scheduled trip to Dubai due to a persistent lung inflammation.

Speculation regarding the pope's potential retirement, akin to his predecessor Pope Benedict XVI, has arisen. However, in his recently published autobiography, Pope Francis stated that there is currently "no risk" of his resignation and that he believes the pope's ministry is for life.

As Easter week, the most significant period on the Catholic calendar, comes to a close, Pope Francis' ability to deliver his message without interruption highlights his determination to fulfill his duties despite health challenges. Followers around the world continue to offer prayers and support for the pontiff's well-being and strength as he carries out his important role in the Catholic Church.