Rome
Pope John Paul II left the hospital this week strong enough to speak clearly to well-wishers. The pope was rushed to the hospital twice in the past six weeks for severe flu, and underwent surgery to relieve a constricted throat. Despite his release, the pontiff may not be able to preside over Easter services. For the first time in his 26-year reign, he has designated cardinals to celebrate Masses at St. Paul’s Cathedral during Easter week. The pope, 84, suffers from Parkinson’s disease and other ailments.
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