Pilgrims witness Pope’s failed attempt to speak

POPE John Paul appeared at his window to bless the faithful on Easter Sunday but in a dramatic episode that brought tears to the eyes of many, he failed in his attempt to speak.

When aides brought a microphone to the Pope’s mouth yesterday he made a few sounds and breathed heavily but was unable to pronounce any words.

The Pope sat at his window for about 15 minutes listening to the end of an Easter Sunday service before he tried to speak. He looked uncomfortable and put both hands to his face.