Pope Francis's uncertain Easter due to health challenges
The Vatican has disclosed details regarding Pope Francis's participation in the upcoming Easter celebrations. The Bishop of Rome has recently spent several weeks in hospital and has not yet regained full strength. This has raised doubts about whether the head of the Church will be able to take part in the celebrations.
Easter is the most significant holiday for Catholics, and the Paschal Triduum, which precedes it, begins on Holy Thursday. On this day, a mass is celebrated globally 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 conducted in the Vatican on this occasion. However, this year, due to Pope Francis's illness, there has been speculation about his presence during these events.
What about the Pope on Easter? The Vatican reveals its plans
The Vatican has indicated that decisions regarding the Pope's participation in the ceremonies will be made at the last minute, and the weather will be a crucial factor. It is already known that Francis will not celebrate the Palm Sunday mass. Cardinal Leonardo Sandri, the retired Prefect of the Dicastery for the Eastern Churches, will take his place.
The Pope is currently staying at the Saint Martha House, where he is recovering from bilateral pneumonia. His health condition is stable, and progress is being made. The statement confirms that the Pope is showing gradual improvement in mobility, breathing, and voice. Blood test results are also good.
Francis is slowly 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 hospital stay due to severe pneumonia that required intensive therapy. After five weeks, he was discharged from the Gemelli Hospital in Rome and returned to the Vatican, where he continues to recuperate. Experts emphasise that the effects of oxygen therapy can influence the length of the recovery process.
Currently, Pope Francis is in the Vatican, gradually regaining his strength. His health has improved, but ongoing medical care is necessary. 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 appearance on the hospital balcony was a sign of hope for many of the faithful.
