VATICAN CITY – On Sunday, Pope Francis addressed members of the military, law enforcement, and various security personnel from across the globe, emphasizing that the use of armed force should be confined to rightful defense and must adhere to international law.

This public appearance marked the first since he was diagnosed with bronchitis on Thursday, during which he officiated an open-air Jubilee Mass dedicated to those in armed service and security roles. After delivering a few remarks, the pope entrusted the reading of his homily to an aide due to breathing difficulties.

“I want to highlight the Church’s stance on this matter: The Second Vatican Council emphasizes that individuals serving in the military for their nation should view themselves as protectors of their people’s security and freedom,” Francis declared in his concluding prayer.

He went on to stress, “This duty of armed service should be carried out solely for legitimate defense, never to exert control over other countries, and always in compliance with international treaties concerning armed conflicts.”

Furthermore, the pontiff made a renewed call for peace in light of ongoing global conflicts in regions like Ukraine, the Middle East, Myanmar, and Sudan. He urged, “May the weapons be silenced universally, and may the pleas of those seeking peace resonate far and wide.”

Following his bronchitis diagnosis, the pope maintained his engagements and held private audiences indoors at his residence, Casa Santa Marta, until Sunday.

Pope Francis has faced various health challenges over the years, including recurring episodes of bronchitis. He often utilizes a walker or cane while moving within his home and has recently experienced two falls that resulted in injuries to his arm and chin.

Discussions regarding the pope’s health remain prevalent within Vatican circles, particularly in the aftermath of Pope Benedict XVI breaking a longstanding tradition by resigning from the papacy in 2013.

Despite the speculations, Francis has stated that he has no intentions of stepping down in the near future, even though Benedict “opened the door” to such possibilities. In his recently published autobiography “Hope,” Francis revealed that he has never contemplated resignation, even following significant intestinal surgery.