Pope John Paul thanked the world for praying for his recovery as he delivered his first Sunday blessing since leaving hospital last week.
Pope John Paul II waves during the Angelus prayer in Saint Peter's Square at the Vatican today
He was able to speak a few words as he appeared at his Vatican window, but aides had to help the frail Pontiff read his address.
The 84-year-old Pope also appealed for the release of all hostages being held by militants in Iraq, including an Italian journalist.
He made the sign of the cross in the direction of the crowd gathered below in St Peter's Square and delivered the blessing.
It was his first since being released last Thursday from Rome's Gemelli hospital, where he was treated for ten days for breathing problems linked to a bout of influenza.
The Pope is due to take part in a one-week Lenten retreat inside the Vatican.