Pope Skips Homily at Start of Busy Holy Week during Palm Sunday Mass
Just before the Palm Sunday Mass in St. Peter's Square, Pope Francis made a spontaneous decision to not give his homily. This allowed him to avoid putting too much strain on himself at the beginning of a busy Holy Week, which could potentially exacerbate his already fragile health.
Due to struggling knees and constant respiratory issues, Francis was unable to take part in the parade of cardinals that occurs around the obelisk in the piazza at the beginning of Mass. Instead, the pontiff, who is 87, gave blessings to the palm fronds and olive branches held by those in attendance from the altar.
It was anticipated that Francis would give a speech during the middle of the service and had recited the prayers throughout the Mass. However, following a brief pause, the presenters announced that Francis had chosen not to deliver the speech.
According to officials from the Vatican, approximately 25,000 individuals participated in the Mass which took place on a clear, chilly spring day.
The week starting from Palm Sunday is going to be very busy for Francis as Easter Sunday approaches. This is an important day to honour the resurrection of Christ. On Thursday, Francis will visit a women's prison in Rome to perform the customary foot washing ritual. Then on Friday, he is scheduled to lead the Way of the Cross procession, which will take place in the evening at Rome's Colosseum, where the story of Christ's crucifixion will be re-enacted.
The succeeding day signifies the Easter Vigil, where Francis leads a serious night ceremony in the basilica, succeeded by Easter Sunday Mass in St. Peter's Square and his midday benediction from the loggia above.
During winter, Francis has been dealing with an illness that has been referred to as either the flu, bronchitis or a cold by him and the Vatican. He has been intermittently asking one of his assistants to read out his speeches and catechism teachings for the last few weeks in an effort to conserve his energy.
