Pope Francis made a public appearance on Saturday at a conference entitled “The Global Aesthetics of the Catholic Imagination” at the Vatican. The event was attended by renowned artists and filmmakers including Martin Scorsese, who had previously met the Pope in 2016.
In his speech, Francis spoke of his admiration for literature and poets, stating that they had helped him to understand both himself and the world around him. He credited literature with deepening his understanding of the human heart and its role in his ministry. The Pope’s love of poetry and literature began in his youth when he taught himself to read.
This appearance follows a brief bout of illness that Francis experienced earlier in the week, which caused him to cancel his regular engagements on Friday. There had been concerns for his health, but the Pope returned to his duties on Saturday. The Vatican did not provide any further updates on his condition.
The conference was attended by international writers, poets and other artists. Martin Scorsese, whose film “Silence” was the subject of a private audience with the Pope in 2016, was among the audience members.
Although the Pope is now resuming his normal duties, he has had a history of medical issues in recent years. In March, he was hospitalized for bronchitis but made a full recovery with antibiotics. He also suffers from knee pain and diverticular disease, which can cause inflammation of the colon.
Despite his health challenges, Pope Francis is expected to celebrate mass for Pentecost in St. Peter’s Square on Sunday, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to his pastoral duties.