2024-03-31 15:27:54
Pope Francis led the Easter service at St Peter’s Basilica in Rome this evening, a day after his participation in the Way of the Cross was unexpectedly canceled, prompting fresh questions about his failing health, AFP reported.
The 87-year-old head of the Catholic Church arrived in a wheelchair, dressed in white, just before 19:30 (18:30 GMT) to lead the two-hour celebration attended by thousands of pilgrims from around the world. Francis was expected to deliver a sermon and baptize eight adults after the light ritual in the darkened basilica, which for Catholics symbolizes Christ’s passing from death to life.
His presence was confirmed by the Vatican at midday, although his appearance at the Stations of the Cross was canceled yesterday for health reasons, just minutes before the start of the ceremony. This contributed to fueling questions about Jorge Bergoglio’s deteriorating health, writes BTA.
The daily “Stampa” published an article “The Way of the Cross of the Fragile Pope”, and “Mesagero” spoke about “the resignation of Francis”.
Holy Week, which for Catholics ends this weekend, is a central pillar of the Catholic calendar, featuring numerous ceremonies culminating in Easter. However, it can be like a marathon for an eighty-year-old man who has been in a wheelchair for two years, notes AFP.