Pope Francis was discharged from the hospital Sunday after more than five weeks of treatment for pneumonia, waving to crowds and thanking well-wishers before heading home.

Sitting in a wheelchair on a hospital balcony, the 88-year-old pontiff looked tired but smiled as he greeted the hundreds of people gathered below. It was his first public appearance since being admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on February 14 for breathing difficulties that developed into pneumonia.

“Thank you, everyone,” Francis said, his voice weak as he waved and made a thumbs-up gesture. He also pointed out a woman holding yellow flowers, causing laughter in the crowd.

After his brief appearance, Francis was discharged and driven past the Vatican to pray at his favorite church, Santa Maria Maggiore, before returning to the Vatican.

Doctors confirmed that while Francis’ health had improved enough for him to go home, he still faces at least two months of recovery due to his previous lung surgery and weight loss. He will require continued physiotherapy to regain full use of his voice after suffering from bilateral pneumonia.

Speculation about the pope’s future has intensified due to his fragile health, with some wondering whether he might step down as Pope Benedict XVI did. However, Vatican officials, including Secretary of State Pietro Parolin, have firmly dismissed the idea of resignation, calling it "absolutely not" a consideration.

The pope’s health has raised concerns over the upcoming Easter period, with questions about who will lead religious events. Francis has missed the Angelus prayers for five consecutive weeks, and his doctors have emphasized the need for rest during his recovery.