Pope Francis, still recovering from double pneumonia, was absent from the annual Good Friday procession at Rome’s Colosseum for the third year in a row. The 88-year-old pontiff, who has been limiting public appearances on medical advice, did not attend the outdoor ceremony marking the crucifixion of Jesus. The Via Crucis event, held at a site believed to be where early Christians were martyred, involves participants carrying a cross while praying and reflecting on meditations.
The Vatican confirmed that Francis personally wrote this year’s meditations, only the second time he has done so during his 12-year papacy. The reflections, tied to biblical readings, touched on themes like war, economic struggles, and the role of women in the Catholic Church. Despite his absence, the ceremony proceeded with thousands of faithful in attendance, leading up to Easter Sunday, the most significant date in the liturgical calendar.
It remains unclear whether the pope will participate in other Easter weekend celebrations. His recent health struggles, including a life-threatening bout of pneumonia last year, have kept him from major events, including a Vatican ceremony the day before. Among those present at the earlier event was U.S. Vice President JD Vance, who was visiting Italy for the holiday.
