This Sunday, Pope Francis presided over Palm Sunday Mass in St. Peter’s Square in the Vatican, kicking off the events leading up to Easter, the day after leaving the hospital.
The hospitalization of the 86-year-old pope with breathing difficulties has raised concerns that he will not be able to participate in the series of rituals of the most important week of the Christian calendar.
Pope Francis pledged to attend and waved briefly aboard the Popemobile to the approximately 30,000 in attendance in St. Peter’s Square, decorated with more than 35,000 plants and flowers.
Francis attended mass while a cardinal led the ceremony at the altar. The Vatican said this was the solution found, as the pope cannot stand for long.
Palm Sunday marks Jesus’ arrival in Jerusalem before his crucifixion, and Easter Sunday celebrates his resurrection from the dead.
Pope Francis was released from hospital this Saturday, after spending three nights in hospital, and as he left the hospital, he joked with those present and said, “I’m still alive”.
The pope was unwell on Wednesday after a general audience in St Peter’s Square, but improved after taking antibiotics. This is the second hospitalization since 2021, when he underwent bowel surgery.
The leader of the Catholic Church has struggled with increasing health problems in recent years, including knee problems that have forced him to use a wheelchair and a cane.
Francis celebrated 10 years as leader of the Catholic Church in March. It has promoted governance reforms and tried to build a more open church, despite internal opposition, especially from the more conservative.
His growing health problems have led to concerns, including speculation that he may choose to retire rather than remain in office for the rest of his life. Francis has already said he would consider stepping down if his health deteriorates, but has no plans to do so for now.
Source: DN
