Pope Francis canceled his attendance at the Good Friday procession at Rome’s Colosseum at the last minute, the Vatican said, in order to “protect his health” ahead of further Easter week events.
Francis’ schedule for the next two days consists of the Easter Vigil on Saturday night, the Easter Mass, and the twice-yearly Urbi e Orbi (to the city and the world) message and blessing on Sunday morning. There is.
The 87-year-old’s sudden absence could renew concerns about his declining fitness. Francis uses a cane or wheelchair to get around because of his knee problems, and he also suffers from bouts of bronchitis and influenza.
The Vatican announced the pope’s absence from the just-to-be-started “Vatene of the Cross” procession, saying in a statement that the pope would follow the procession remotely from the Vatican’s official residence.
Francisco, who appeared to be in better health this week after weeks when he found it difficult to speak in public and canceled some meetings, also appeared to be in better health after recovering from a four-day hospitalization for bronchitis last year. Did not participate in the procession.
The Colosseum’s Station of the Cross is a reenactment of Jesus’ crucifixion, where participants take turns holding a cross as they walk in and around the ancient Roman arena, stopping to pray and listen to meditation.
Nuns, priests, hermits, philanthropists, immigrants, people with disabilities and others took part in the service, which was held at a monument believed to be the site of early Christian martyrdom.
Francis personally wrote this year’s meditations, the first in his 11 years as pontiff. It included praise for meekness and forgiveness of evil deeds, and prayers for persecuted Christians and war victims.
The pope, who called for the Catholic Church to become less male-dominated, also praised the women who helped Jesus carry the cross, pleading with them “for them.” [women] Even in our time, they are exploited and endure injustice and humiliation. ”
Early Friday morning, the pope joined cardinals and bishops in St. Peter’s Basilica for the Passion service, which featured hymns in Latin that recounted the events of Jesus from his arrest to his burial.
In the past, Francis would begin prayers by prostrate on the floor of the cathedral, but he is unable to do so now due to his poor health. Instead, he arrived in a wheelchair and prayed silently in front of the high altar.
