Pope Francis will not be able to personally hold the main Easter worship in the Vatican because of health problems. For the first time in a long time, traditional Easter ceremonies in the Vatican will be held without his participation, and several cardinals will be replaced. This important decision was announced in the Vatican through the official Vatican News channel.
Due to the fact that the health of the Pope Francis has deteriorated, the Vatican decided to assign his substitutes for the main church rites, in particular, on Easter. During the Holy Week, including Holy Friday and Great Saturday, the Church will not leave believers without spiritual support, but a large part of the liturgy will be headed by cardinals.
On Holy Friday, which is one of the most important moments of Holy Week, Cardinal Claudio Gudzherotti, the prefect of the Dicasterium of the Eastern Churches, will head the Holy Liturgy in St. Peter's Basilica. According to tradition, the crucifixion of Jesus Christ is celebrated this day, and the believers honor His suffering and death on the cross.
That evening, Cardinal Baldo Rhine, a Pope General Vicar in Rome, will head the famous godparent in a conflict. It is an important worship service that traditionally takes place in the open air in Rome is one of the most striking rituals of Holy Week. Every year, a large number of believers are gathered for the Cross, and even in the absence of the Pope, this ceremony will remain an important part of the Easter celebrations.
The great Saturday, the day before Easter, in St. Peter's Basilica will be held by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re. The Pope instructed him this duty, and this was another proof of high trust in Cardinal. The great Saturday is usually noted for important rituals: the blessing of Easter lights and festive services. This day is a preparation for the most solemn service - the Holy Mass for Easter.
On Sunday, on Easter, the Morning Holy Mass on St. Peter's Square will be held by Cardinal Angelo Komastri. It will be the main liturgy of the day in which the resurrection of Jesus Christ is celebrated. This rite traditionally gathers thousands of believers in St. Peter's Square, and although the Pope will not be present personally, Cardinal Komastri retains the importance and grandeur of the festive rite.
Such a distribution of duties among cardinals was announced only a few days before the beginning of Holy Week, so most believers are waiting for a change in the format of worship. This case is exceptional because the Pope usually takes an active part in all important church rites, especially Easter.
Pope Francis, who in March 2023 celebrated the 10th anniversary of his pontificate, does not first face health problems. In the past, he has already reported difficulties with his back, and in a certain period of time even had to postpone some events due to illness. However, this time a more serious reason is the need to rest more and not to overload the body.
The Vatican emphasizes that the Pope remains the spiritual leader of the Catholic Church, and although he will not be able to attend the services personally, his prayers and blessings will accompany believers during all worship.
