Pope Francis (R) looks at his candle during the Easter vigil as part of the Holy Week celebrations, at St Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican on March 30, 2024. © Tiziana Fabi, AFP
By The Smartencyclopedia Staff & Agencies
The Vatican has confirmed that Pope Francis will preside over the Easter Vigil service on Saturday night, following his last-minute decision to skip the Good Friday procession at the Colosseum due to health precautions.
The decision was announced through the Vatican’s daily bulletin, indicating that Pope Francis would lead the lengthy vigil in St. Peter’s Basilica, one of the most significant moments in the Catholic liturgical calendar. The service, scheduled to commence at 7:30 p.m., is a commemoration of the resurrection of Jesus and includes the sacrament of baptism for eight adult converts.
The 87-year-old pontiff, who underwent surgery to remove part of one lung earlier in life, has been grappling with respiratory issues throughout the winter, making it challenging for him to speak extensively. This has led to the cancellation of some audiences and modifications in his speech delivery methods.
The pope’s absence from the Way of the Cross procession at the Colosseum on Good Friday was decided abruptly, as he opted to remain at home rather than participate in the re-enactment of Christ’s crucifixion. The Vatican attributed this decision to the need to preserve his health, especially considering the demanding schedule for the Easter weekend. On Easter Sunday, Pope Francis is expected to preside over a morning Mass in St. Peter’s Square and deliver his Urbi et Orbi speech, offering prayers for an end to global crises.
While the pope also missed the Good Friday procession last year due to recovery from bronchitis, this year’s sudden absence has sparked concerns. His chair was placed on the podium, and preparations were underway for his arrival before the Vatican announced his absence just minutes before the event’s start time.
In addition to respiratory problems, Pope Francis underwent surgery to remove a portion of his large intestine in 2021 and faced hospitalization twice last year, including a procedure to address intestinal scar tissue. He has been reliant on a wheelchair or cane for nearly two years due to knee ligament issues.
Despite these health challenges, Pope Francis recently stated in his memoirs, “Life: My Story Through History,” that he does not suffer from any health issues necessitating resignation. He affirmed his commitment to fulfilling his duties, expressing his determination to pursue various projects.