Pope Francis's Easter role uncertain as Vatican monitors health
The Vatican has revealed details about Pope Francis's participation in the upcoming Easter celebrations. The Bishop of Rome recently spent several weeks in the hospital and has yet to regain full strength, raising doubts about his ability to partake in the ceremonies.
Easter is the most important holiday for Catholics, and the Paschal Triduum, which precedes it, begins on Holy Thursday. On this day, a mass is celebrated worldwide to commemorate the Last Supper, where priests symbolically wash the feet of 12 men.
Good Friday is marked by the Stations of the Cross, commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus, while Holy Saturday involves the blessing of food. Each year, the Vatican holds special ceremonies for these occasions. However, this year, due to Pope Francis's illness, there has been speculation about his participation in these events.
What about the Pope on Easter? The Vatican reveals its plans
The Vatican has announced that decisions regarding the Pope's participation in the ceremonies will be made in real-time, with the weather playing a crucial role. It is already confirmed that Francis will not celebrate the Palm Sunday mass. Cardinal Leandro Sandri, the retired Prefect of the Dicastery for the Eastern Churches, will stand in for him.
The Pope is currently recovering at the Saint Martha House from bilateral pneumonia. His health condition is stable, and his recovery is progressing well. The statement notes that the Pope is showing gradual improvement in mobility, breathing, and voice. Blood test results are also good.
Francis is gradually resuming his duties. In recent days, he has held several meetings, including those with representatives of the Roman Curia and prefects of some Vatican offices. He also spoke with King Charles III and his wife Camilla.
Pope Francis's illness
Pope Francis underwent a lengthy hospitalization due to severe pneumonia requiring intensive therapy. After five weeks, he was discharged from the Gemelli Hospital in Rome and returned to the Vatican, where he continues his recovery. Experts emphasize that the effects of oxygen therapy can prolong the recovery process.
Currently, Pope Francis is in the Vatican, gradually regaining strength. His health has improved, but additional medical care is still necessary. The Pope's age and coexisting conditions, such as kidney failure, may extend the duration of his recovery. The Pope has limited his public appearances to focus on rest and rehabilitation.
Despite health challenges, Pope Francis remains in good spirits and is on the path to a full recovery. His recent appearance on the hospital balcony was a hopeful sign for many of the faithful.
