Pope Francis has made the decision not to attend the traditional Good Friday procession at Rome’s Colosseum, citing concerns for his health. The last-minute announcement raised questions about his condition during this busy period. Although he had prepared meditations for the event, Francis opted to follow it from his home at the Vatican instead of attending in person.
The Vatican explained that the 87-year-old pontiff had been struggling with what has been described as the flu, bronchitis, or a cold all winter. Despite this, he had continued to fulfill his duties as head of the Catholic Church, including delivering speeches and presiding over religious ceremonies. However, just before the Good Friday procession began, it was announced that Francis would be praying from his residence instead of attending in person.
Despite his current health issues, Pope Francis is still scheduled to preside over the Easter Vigil on Saturday and Easter Sunday Mass in St. Peter’s Square. He is also expected to deliver his “Urbi et Orbi” address on global crises and threats to humanity. His absence from the Good Friday procession has raised concerns but he continues to fulfill his duties as the spiritual leader of over one billion Catholics worldwide during this significant time in the liturgical calendar.
