Pope Francis Emerges From Convalescence On Easter

Pope Francis emerged from his convalescence on Easter, on Sunday, to bless thousands of people in St. Peter's Square and treat them to a surprise popemobile romp through the piazza, drawing wild cheers and applause as he continues his recovery from a near-fatal bout of double pneumonia.

- Associated Press

VATICAN CITY:

"Viva il Papa!" (Long live the pope), "Bravo!" the crowd shouted as Francis looped through the square in his open-topped popemobile and then up and down the main avenue leading to it. He stopped occasionally to bless babies brought up to him, a scene that was common in the past but unthinkable just a few weeks ago as the 88-year-old pope fought for his life.

"Brothers and sisters, Happy Easter!" Francis said, his voice sounding stronger than it has since he was released from the hospital March 23 after a five-week stay.