Francis, 88, has been pope since 2013 and has suffered from influenza and other health problems several times over the past two years. Last week, Francis told pilgrims at the weekly audience that he was suffering from a "strong cold," which the Vatican later described as bronchitis.

Making the effort to use his own voice at the end of the audience, the pope earnestly pleaded with Catholics to “do our best” to bring an end to all conflicts.

Pope Francis, 88, told the public at his weekly Vatican audience that he is still recovering from bronchitis and was unable to read his prepared speech. The pope once again asked an aide to deliver his remarks,