Pope Francis unexpectedly withdrew from a crucial Easter ceremony on Friday, sparking concerns about his fragile health.
The Vatican stated that he opted out of the Way of the Cross ceremony to prioritize his well-being ahead of upcoming events during the holiest Christian weekend.
Despite preparations for his attendance, his armchair was removed just moments before the ceremony at the Colosseum in Rome.
The Vatican explained that the pontiff would observe the ceremony from the Santa Marta Residence due to health considerations for the vigil and Easter Sunday mass.
Last year, he also missed the ceremony after a hospitalization, but this time, the decision was made suddenly.
Previously, Francis had experienced a bout of flu, leading to the cancellation of some engagements, and he occasionally delegated speeches to others.
Despite reassurances from a Vatican source that there was no immediate cause for concern about his health, the decision to withdraw was described as a precautionary measure.
His busy schedule leading up to Easter included presiding over Good Friday mass and participating in a symbolic foot-washing ritual at a prison in Rome.
The 87-year-old pope, who has faced various health challenges including knee and hip pain, regularly uses a wheelchair.
In June 2023, he underwent hernia surgery and had previously been hospitalized for bronchitis and colon surgery.
Although he has acknowledged the possibility of resignation in the event of serious physical limitations, he emphasized in a recent memoir that he had no immediate plans to step down.
Despite his absence, thousands gathered for the Way of the Cross ceremony, where for the first time as pope, Francis personally penned the texts for the 14 Stations of the Cross, representing Christ’s journey to crucifixion.
