VATICAN CITY, March 28: Pope John Paul failed to appear at a midday Easter on Monday blessing that traditionally marks the end of papal Holy Week celebrations, but there was no immediate indication that the Pontiff’s health had worsened. Although the Vatican had never confirmed this year’s event, expectant crowds nonetheless filled St Peter’s Square, chanting the Pope’s name and hoping for a glimpse of the ailing Roman Catholic leader.

However, the Pope’s windows remained firmly shuttered and after waiting more than an hour in the huge, drafty square, many of the pilgrims reluctantly started to drift away.

It was the first time during his 26-year papacy that John Paul had failed to appear at 12.00 a.m. (1000 GMT) on Easter Monday for the brief blessing.

“I’m not aware of any worsening of the Pope’s health today. I think the doctors have advised him to rest after the activities of the past few days,” a Vatican source said. The 84-year-old Pope appeared at his window to bless the faithful on Easter Sunday but he failed in his attempt to speak, raising fears that his health was failing a month after undergoing surgery to ease a breathing crisis.

Earlier on Monday, Vatican television cancelled plans for a midday live broadcast from St Peter’s Square, but its television cameras continued to focus on the papal apartments suggesting the frail Pontiff might yet appear.—Reuters