Pope skips homily at start of busy Holy Week during Palm Sunday Mass in St. Peter's Square

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The leader of the Catholic Church, Pope Francis, made a spontaneous decision to not deliver his homily during the Palm Sunday Mass in St. Peter's Square. By doing so, he avoided a potentially tedious speech at the beginning of an eventful Holy Week, which could have posed a significant challenge to his declining physical well-being.

Due to his unhealthy knees and long-lasting respiratory issues, Francis was unable to join the procession of cardinals around the obelisk in the piazza at the beginning of the Mass. In its place, the 87-year-old pope imparted his blessing upon the palm fronds and olive branches being carried by the churchgoers from the altar.

It was anticipated that Francis would give a speech during the middle of the religious ceremony and had already recited the prayers during the Mass. However, after a few moments of quietness, the presenters informed the audience that Francis opted not to present the homily.

According to Vatican officials, approximately 25,000 individuals were present at the Mass, which took place on a bright and windy day in the spring season.

The beginning of Holy Week begins with Palm Sunday, and it's a very busy time for Francis as Easter Sunday approaches. During this time, believers remember the resurrection of Christ. On Thursday, Francis plans to visit a Women's prison in Rome to participate in the foot-washing ceremony. On Friday, he will lead the nighttime Way of the Cross procession at the Colosseum in Rome, which is a reenactment of Christ's crucifixion.

The day after is the Easter Vigil. At this event, Francis leads an important service at night in the basilica. Then, on Easter Sunday, there is a Mass in St. Peter's Square. After that, Francis gives a special blessing at noon from the loggia above.

Throughout this winter season, Francis has been struggling with what he and the Vatican believe to be the flu, bronchitis or a cold. Over the past few weeks, he has at times requested his assistant to read out his speeches and catechism lessons to lessen his exertion.