Former Irish President's Concern for Pope Francis at Easter Mass

Former Irish president Mary McAleese expressed deep concern as she believed Pope Francis was going to die when she watched him on TV at Easter Sunday mass in the Vatican. Ms McAleese and Her Observations

Ms McAleese, who has been critical of the late Pontiff, believed he knew his final public appearance would be his last. While watching him on television, she turned to her husband and said: 'He looks like a man that might die today'. Speaking on RTÉ Radio 1, she added: 'He looked to me like a man that was about to spend his last breath doing the thing he wanted to do. As he went around in the Popemobile, the young priest was constantly checking with him. We were watching a dying Pope yesterday.' Pope Francis at Easter Sunday Mass

Pope Francis made a short appearance in front of tens of thousands of Catholics at St Peter's Square on Easter Sunday. Advised to spend two months recovering, he still managed to wish a 'Happy Easter' from his wheelchair on the balcony. The Pontiff then travelled through the square in his Popemobile as he waved at attendees and blessed babies and young children. Views on Pope Francis

Ms McAleese highlighted that despite his love from many, especially the poor and migrants, she found Pope Francis lacking clarity in his beliefs at times. She praised his efforts to spark dialogues on topics such as LGBTQ+ matters within the church, while also noting his hesitancy on issues like women priests. Legacy of Pope Francis

Reflecting on his impact, Ms McAleese described Pope Francis as a man who tried his best and aimed to make the church better. She acknowledged his initiatives to push the church to evolve, despite some setbacks. She concluded that he would be remembered as someone who contributed to the continuous transformation of the church.