Pope Surprises Congregation with Unexpected Move During Palm Sunday Mass
Pope Francis made a spontaneous decision to skip his sermon during the Palm Sunday Mass in St. Peter's Square. The Pope, who has been experiencing health issues such as knee problems and respiratory difficulties, also did not take part in the procession of cardinals at the beginning of the Mass. Instead, he blessed the palm fronds and olive branches carried by the faithful from the altar.
It was expected that Francis would deliver a sermon during the service, although he has been delegating longer speeches to his aides in recent weeks. However, after a few moments of silence, it was announced that the Pope had chosen not to give the sermon. Vatican officials did not provide an immediate explanation for this decision.
During the Mass, Francis did lead prayers and made a heartfelt appeal for peace at the end. He expressed his prayers for the families of those who lost their lives in a tragic attack at a concert hall in suburban Moscow. He also requested prayers for the people of Ukraine and Gaza, emphasizing the need for peace in these troubled regions.
Approximately 60,000 people attended the Mass, which took place under a sunny sky. After the service, Francis spent some time greeting the crowd from the popemobile as he circled the square.
Palm Sunday marks the beginning of a busy week for Pope Francis, leading up to Easter Sunday when Christians celebrate the resurrection of Christ. On Thursday, he is scheduled to visit a women's prison in Rome to perform the traditional washing of the feet ritual. On Friday, he will preside over the Way of the Cross procession at the Colosseum, symbolizing the crucifixion of Jesus.
The following day is the Easter Vigil, during which the Pope leads a solemn nighttime service in the basilica. This is followed by Easter Sunday Mass in St. Peter's Square, where he gives his midday blessing from the loggia.
Over the past winter, Francis has been dealing with flu-like symptoms, bronchitis, or a cold. In recent weeks, he has occasionally asked an aide to read his speeches and lessons to save him from the effort of speaking. On Palm Sunday, there was no substitute, and the sermon was simply omitted. The Vatican did not clarify whether his prepared remarks should be considered as delivered, which is often the case when the Pope decides not to read them aloud.
Typically, the Pope does not deliver a sermon on Easter, but he traditionally offers reflections on Palm Sunday. At the end of the Mass, Francis offered a lengthy prayer for peace, expressing his concern for all those affected by war and the victims of the terrorist attack in Moscow. He urged a change of heart in those who commit such inhumane acts, which go against God's commandment not to kill. He also asked the faithful to remember the suffering in Ukraine and Gaza, emphasizing the need for compassion and peace in those regions.