In St. Peter’s Square on Thursday, a palpable sense of longing filled the air. Thousands of devoted pilgrims, gathering for the Jubilee event—an occasion of penance and forgiveness occurring every quarter of a century—felt an acute absence: Pope Francis. The pontiff has been undergoing treatment for pneumonia and other infections at the Gemelli hospital for the last three weeks, missing key moments like his Wednesday general audiences and Sunday Angelus prayers. On Ash Wednesday, he delegated his homily to a cardinal, further emphasizing his health complications.

A faint snippet of his voice delivering a blessing in Spanish was shared with the faithful, who bowed their heads in prayer, hoping for his quick recovery. “We were hoping we could see him,” expressed Dinora Ramirez, a pilgrim from Honduras, tears brimming in her eyes. “Our hearts are aching.” The medical team has provided limited updates on the pope’s condition, which has fluctuated between serious and stable, fostering speculation regarding his health and concerns of resignation, as unfounded rumors regarding his death also surged.

Pope Francis has always been known for his close connection with believers, frequently engaging with crowds and participating in direct interactions. His absence is felt even more strongly as the faithful flock to Rome, yearning for a glimpse of their spiritual leader, particularly with Easter celebrations drawing near.