The resurgent Pope Francis begins Palm Sunday Mass in the Vatican

VATICAN CITY — Pope Francis opened the Holy Mass on Palm Sunday in St. Peter’s Square, presiding over his first ceremony after his stay in the hospital due to bronchitis.

On a cloudy morning, Francis wore a long, ivory-colored coat as he was driven out into the square aboard a papal mobile. Before him, dozens of prelates and priests, as well as tens of thousands of faithful, clutching palm leaves or olive branches, filled the square.

86-year-old Ferenc received intravenous antibiotics during his three-day stay. Most recently, he performed in front of the usual Wednesday audience at Szent Péter Square. On the same day, he was taken to the Gemelli Polyclinic in Rome after feeling unwell.

Palm Sunday opens for him the busy schedule of Holy Week meetings.

At the beginning of the Mass, Francis took a seat in front of the towering obelisk, while a procession of cardinals and other faithful in bright red robes passed through the square.

His voice rang out strongly as he opened the ceremony observing Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem to his crucifixion, which Christians celebrate on Good Friday.

The Vatican announced on Saturday that Francis will preside over the Holy Week ceremonies, which will end on April 9 with the Easter Sunday Mass.