Vatican plans uncertain for Pope Francis's Easter role
The Vatican has revealed details regarding Pope Francis's presence during the upcoming Easter celebrations. The Bishop of Rome recently spent several weeks in the hospital and has not yet returned to full strength, raising doubts about whether the head of the Church will be able to participate in the celebrations.
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, during which priests symbolically wash the feet of 12 men.
Good Friday is a time for the Stations of the Cross, commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus, and Holy Saturday is a day for blessing food. Every year, special ceremonies are held in the Vatican on this occasion. However, this year, due to Pope Francis's illness, there have been speculations about his presence during these events.
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The Vatican has informed that decisions regarding the Pope's participation in the ceremonies will be made in real-time, and the weather will play a crucial role. It is already known that Francis will not celebrate the Palm Sunday mass. Cardinal Leandro Sandri, the retired Prefect of the Dicastery for the Eastern Churches, will replace him.
The Pope is currently staying at the Saint Martha House, where he is recovering from bilateral pneumonia. His health condition is stable, and the recovery is progressing well. The statement confirms that the Pope is showing gradual improvement in mobility, breathing, and voice. Blood test results are also good.
Francis is gradually returning to his duties. In recent days, he has held several meetings, including 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 that required intensive therapy. After five weeks, he left the Gemelli Hospital in Rome and returned to the Vatican, where he continues his recovery. Experts emphasize that the effects of oxygen therapy can affect the length of the recovery process.
Currently, Pope Francis is in the Vatican, gradually regaining his strength. His health has improved, but further medical care is needed. The Pope's age and coexisting conditions, such as kidney failure, may prolong the recovery process. The Pope has limited his public appearances, focusing on rest and rehabilitation.
Despite health challenges, Pope Francis remains in good spirits and is on the way to full recovery. His recent presence on the hospital balcony was a sign of hope for many faithful.
