Uncertainty surrounds Pope Francis’ ability to deliver the traditional Urbi et Orbi (To the City and to the World) blessing to tens of thousands of believers in St Peter’s Square.

Due to Francis’ health issues, as he recovers from pneumonia, the Mass is expected to be celebrated by a high-ranking cardinal, the Italian Angelo Comastri

The Vatican is set to mark Easter Sunday, the highlight of the Christian calendar, with a large Mass at St Peter’s in Rome.

The 88-year-old was able to leave the Gemelli Hospital in Rome four weeks ago after spending more than a month in the hospital.

However, he still needs to take it easy following his life-threatening illness, under doctors’ recommendations.

During his few public appearances since his discharge, he sometimes appeared very weak.

Speaking also poses difficulties for the leader of the world’s more than 1.4 billion Catholics.

Earlier, on Saturday evening, Francis appeared in a wheelchair in St Peter’s Basilica.

At Easter, according to Christian tradition, the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ are commemorated.

This year, the festival holds even more significance because the Catholic Church has declared 2025 a Jubilee.

Pope Francis had originally intended to be present at these important events.

This weekend alone, an estimated one million visitors were in Rome, including believers from all over the world, among them is U.S. Vice President JD Vance.

The deputy of Donald Trump, who converted to the Catholic faith in 2019, plans to attend Easter Mass with his family.

(dpa/NAN)