Participation of Pope Francis in Easter Celebrations Still Uncertain

Pope Francis is recovering after a long hospital stay. Despite medical instructions, the 88-year-old has been seeking contact with the public for almost two weeks. Pope Francis receives guests in the Vatican and visits churches in a wheelchair, where he greets and blesses those present.

Way of the Cross likely without Pope Francis

Thus, Pope Francis's appearance at the end of the Palm Sunday Mass in St. Peter's Square - although unannounced - was not very surprising. It is therefore highly likely that he will handle the upcoming holidays similarly. His spokesman Matteo Bruni does not want to commit yet and makes Pope Francis's appearance dependent on the weather, among other things. For the traditional Good Friday Way of the Cross at the Roman Colosseum, this means that it will likely take place without the Pontiff. According to forecasts, it is expected to be rainy and windy. The Cardinal Vicar of the Diocese of Rome, Baldassare Reina, is to lead the ceremony. In the past two years, the weakened Pope was already absent from the evening event held outdoors.

Pope Francis likely to attend Easter Mass

The weekend is expected to be sunnier and dry again. These are ideal conditions for the grand Easter Mass on Sunday morning. It is very likely that Pope Francis will be present in St. Peter's Square, lavishly decorated with flowers. He is unlikely to miss the subsequent important blessing "Urbi et Orbi" (To the City and the World) from the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica. Although long speeches are still difficult for Francis, he can delegate the reading of his Easter message - in an emergency, even the blessing itself.

Location for foot washing by Pope Francis open

The Easter Vigil on Saturday takes place in St. Peter's Basilica, regardless of the weather. On Holy Thursday, Francis traditionally washes the feet of twelve people in remembrance of Jesus' gesture of humility, who washed his disciples' feet before the Last Supper. In recent years, the Pope has mostly performed this symbolic act on prison inmates. The location is always announced only a few hours in advance. If Francis wishes to maintain this rite in his current condition, people could be brought to him in the Vatican this time.

Leadership of Easter celebrations lies with others

It is already clear: Even if Pope Francis participates in the celebrations, others will take over the practical leadership. Due to his limited mobility, this has been customary for years. Nevertheless, the Vatican still keeps the so-called main celebrants for the Easter Vigil and the Sunday Mass a secret. Only for the celebrations on Holy Thursday and Good Friday have they been determined so far. It is unclear whether an internal hierarchy struggle is responsible for this or the general uncertainty due to the condition of Pope Francis.

(APA/Red)

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