Pope Francis, the 87-year-old pontiff, made a last-minute decision to pull out of a Good Friday service to preserve his health ahead of major Easter events over the weekend. This decision comes after the pope underwent an operation on his abdomen last year and has been battling bouts of bronchitis, cold, and flu in recent weeks.
The Stations of the Cross service at Rome’s Colosseum was due to start on Friday evening when the Vatican announced that Pope Francis would follow it from his residence instead of attending in person. Earlier in the day, he had presided over the Celebration of the Passion of the Lord at St. Peter’s Basilica.
During his Good Friday meditations, the pope addressed contemporary concerns such as war, online hatred, and the exploitation of women. He reflected on the judgment of the crowd watching the crucifixion and linked it to online hatred, calling for an end to hasty judgment, gossip, and offensive words.
Pope Francis also expressed solidarity with those affected by war and those exploited by the powerful, emphasizing the dignity of women who stood by Jesus during his passion. His reflections highlight the importance of recognizing and respecting the dignity of all individuals, especially those who endure injustice and indignity in today’s world.
