VATICAN CITY — As Mass began, a brisk breeze ruffled the pope's gold-colored vestments and the crimson feathers atop the helmets of Swiss Guards as he strode up the square to take his place at a canopied altar on the steps of St. Peter's Basilica.

On Christianity's most joyous day, Pope Benedict XVI offered holiday wishes in 62 languages Sunday, gave his blessing and reflected on the world's troubles in his first Easter message as pontiff. St. Peter's Square was ablaze with color and life, decorated with potted tulips, daffodils, wisteria and pansies, thronged by 100,000 faithful and tourists on a hazy spring day.

How different from last Easter, when Benedict's predecessor, John Paul II, was so frail he was unable to speak, only raising his hand in blessing. Many in the crowd were moved to tears at the sight of their incapacitated leader.

John Paul died six days later, after missing all major Holy Week events.

This Easter fell on Benedict's 79th birthday, and although he looked tired, he made sure to address the world's pressing issues — a nuclear crisis over Iran, the Palestinians' struggle for their own state, relentless violence in Iraq, suffering in Sudan's Darfur region.

Benedict made note of developments which have raised fears that Iran might be working toward a nuclear arsenal.

"Concerning the international crises linked to nuclear power, may an honorable solution be found for all parties, through serious and honest negotiations," Benedict said. He did not name any country.