Pope Skips Good Friday Procession
The Vatican 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 concerns.
Health Concerns and Easter Celebrations
Amid ongoing respiratory problems that have affected his ability to speak, the 87-year-old pontiff will lead the sacrament of baptism for eight adult converts during the important Easter Vigil service in St. Peter’s Basilica. The decision to forego the Good Friday procession was made to “conserve his health” for the upcoming Easter Sunday obligations.
Previous Health Issues
Despite his health challenges, including respiratory issues and recent surgeries, Pope Francis remains committed to his duties and has expressed in his memoirs that he has no intentions of resigning. His absence from the Good Friday procession this year, although not unprecedented, has raised some concerns among the faithful.
Upcoming Easter Celebrations
Following the Easter Vigil service, Pope Francis is scheduled to preside over the Easter Mass in St. Peter’s Square and deliver the traditional Urbi et Orbi speech, praying for global peace and unity. Despite his health challenges, the pontiff remains dedicated to fulfilling his responsibilities and spreading his message of hope and faith.