Pope Francis Skips Good Friday Procession at Colosseum Due to Health Concerns

Pope Francis Skips Good Friday Procession at Rome's Colosseum

On Good Friday, Pope Francis made a last-minute decision to skip the traditional procession at Rome's Colosseum. The Vatican announced that this decision was made in order to protect his health, adding to concerns about his frail condition during a particularly busy period.

Health Concerns

Despite expectations for Francis to preside over the Way of the Cross procession, which re-enacts Christ's Passion and crucifixion, the Vatican revealed that he would follow the event from his home at the Vatican instead. The decision was made to conserve his health in view of the upcoming vigil and Mass on Easter Sunday.

Previous Health Issues

This isn't the first time Francis has missed this event; he also didn't attend in 2023 due to recovering from bronchitis and the cold weather. However, this year's decision to stay home seemed to be more sudden.

Last-Minute Change

The decision to stay home appeared to be very last-minute, as everything was prepared for his presence at the Colosseum. His absence was noted with concern but understanding among the estimated 25,000 pilgrims attending the procession, with many expressing support and understanding for his decision.

Visitor Reactions

Visitors from different parts of the world expressed their understanding of the situation. Marlene Steuber from Costa Rica and Brian Hopp from Chicago both acknowledged the health challenges that Pope Francis has faced this year and expressed support for his decision to prioritize his health for Easter.

Upcoming Engagements

Despite his recent health challenges, Pope Francis had appeared in good form earlier that day for a Good Friday liturgy in St. Peter's Basilica. He is scheduled to preside over the Easter Vigil on Saturday and deliver his "Urbi et Orbi" speech on Easter Sunday, rounding up global crises and threats to humanity.

Previous Health Issues

Besides respiratory problems, Pope Francis had a portion of his large intestine removed in 2021 and had been hospitalized twice last year. He has been using a wheelchair and cane for over a year due to bad knee ligaments. In his recently published memoirs, Francis stated that he isn't suffering from any health problems that would require him to resign and that he still has many projects to bring to fruition.