‘Pope John Paul (news - web sites) II greeted pilgrims in a raspy voice Sunday, his first live address to the faithful since he underwent throat surgery last month to ease his breathing, and the Vatican (news - web sites) announced he would leave the hospital later in the day.

The 84-year-old pontiff spoke just a few words, waving and making the sign of the cross to the faithful gathered beneath his 10th-floor suite at Rome’s Gemelli Polyclinic hospital.

“Dear brothers and sisters, thank you for your visit,” the pope said. “To everyone, have a good Sunday and a good week.”‘

Read more at Vatican Says Pope to Leave Hospital Today

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