Pope Francis presided over the Palm Sunday service at St. Peter’s Square, attracting thousands of worshippers. Despite recent health concerns, the Pope’s participation marks the beginning of Holy Week, with events leading up to Easter.
Palm Sunday is observed by Christians around the world as the start of Holy Week, commemorating Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem, an event symbolizing humility and peace. The day is marked by the tradition of carrying palm branches as a representation of victory and triumph, a practice that traces back to the biblical account of Jesus’ arrival in Jerusalem. In various parts of the world, Palm Sunday is celebrated with Masses and processions, including the reenactment of Jesus’ journey from the Mount of Olives to Jerusalem’s Old City by Christian pilgrims carrying palm fronds and olive branches.
On this occasion, Pope Francis participated in the Palm Sunday service at the Vatican, surrounded by up to 30,000 worshippers in St. Peter’s Square. This year’s service was particularly notable as it followed the Pope’s recovery from bronchitis the previous year. The service, which can last up to two and a half hours, marks the commencement of a week filled with significant religious events leading up to Easter Sunday, with the Vatican serving as a spiritual hub for the faithful.
However, Pope Francis made an unexpected decision during the Mass, opting not to deliver his homily and choosing instead to simply bless the palm fronds and olive branches carried by attendees. This decision came as a surprise to the congregation, given the Pope’s known health issues, including respiratory problems and knee difficulties. Estimated to be attended by around 25,000 people, the Mass was highlighted by the Pope’s continued dedication to his duties amidst health challenges. The Pope is expected to participate in various events throughout Holy Week, including a visit to a women’s prison and presiding over the Way of the Cross procession at Rome’s Colosseum, underscoring his commitment to his spiritual responsibilities in the Christian calendar.
