Pope Francis, dealing with a “lung inflammation,” sat in his residence rather than St. Peter’s Square for the Sunday message, read by an aide.
Wearing white robes with a bandaged hand, the 86-year-old pope explained his absence due to lung issues, contradicting the Vatican’s earlier statement. The scan ruled out complications after a flu bout.
Father Paolo Braida read the message, with the pope expressing intentions to attend the U.N. climate change conference in Dubai.
Despite concerns, the pope ended with a blessing and traditional remarks.
The event, broadcast to crowds, marked a departure from the usual appearance in the square.
