A silent Pope John Paul appeared at his window overlooking St Peter's Square today following widespread reports that his health had deteriorated markedly in the past few days.
The Pope appeared at the window for little more than a minute but nonetheless prompted cheers from a crowd of several thousand people below.
Many were from his native Poland. He did not speak during the appearance.
Sitting and wearing his traditional white cassock, he was rolled up to the window. He waved several times to the crowd and made a gesture of blessing them.
The Pontiff, who has not spoken in public since he left hospital on March 13th, appeared to be trying to smile but his face looked pained at times.
It was his first appearance in public since Sunday. Since then, there had been numerous reports that the health of the 84-year-old Pontiff, who underwent throat surgery last month, was precarious.
Wednesday is the day the Pope normally holds his weekly general audience, but they have been suspended since he was hospitalised in February. There is no indication when the audiences might resume.