Pope Francis skips Good Friday procession to protect health, Vatican says

At the eleventh hour, the 87-year-old withdrew from the event, prompting apprehension about his well-being just before the bustling Easter weekend. This sudden change in plans has sparked speculation and raised questions about the individual's health status.
With the Easter festivities approaching, the absence of the elderly person adds an element of uncertainty and concern. It is crucial to monitor the situation closely and ensure that appropriate measures are taken to address any health issues or challenges that may arise.

Pope Francis opted not to participate in the Good Friday Way of the Cross procession at the Colosseum in Rome, citing the need to prioritize his health ahead of Easter, according to the Vatican. Despite expectations for his presence, it was announced prior to the event that he would observe the procession from his residence at the Vatican.

The procession, symbolizing Christ's Passion and crucifixion, features meditations composed by the Pope, which are recited at each station. The Vatican's press office stated that the Pope chose to follow the Via Crucis from Casa Santa Marta to preserve his health for the upcoming Easter vigil and Mass on Sunday. Earlier in the day, Pope Francis had appeared in good spirits during a Good Friday liturgy at St. Peter's Basilica.

He missed last year's procession due to "extremely cold weather" in Rome

The Pope, who underwent surgery to remove part of one lung during his youth, has been contending with what he and the Vatican have characterized as a bout of the flu, bronchitis, or a common cold throughout the winter season.

In recent weeks, there have been instances where he has requested an aide to read his speeches aloud, and he opted not to deliver his Palm Sunday homily, sparking concerns regarding his well-being.

In addition to his respiratory issues, Pope Francis underwent surgery to remove a portion of his large intestine in 2021 and experienced two hospitalizations last year. One hospitalization was for the removal of intestinal scar tissue resulting from previous surgeries to address diverticulosis, a condition characterized by bulges in the intestinal wall.

The decision to forgo attendance at the Good Friday procession seemed to have been made abruptly: Pope Francis' chair had been set up on the platform where he was scheduled to lead the ceremony.

However, just five minutes prior to the scheduled start of the procession, the Vatican press office announced via Telegram that he would not be participating, and his chair was promptly removed.

Today, he is expected to lead a lengthy evening Easter Vigil at St. Peter's, which is among the most solemn events observed in the liturgical calendar.
Additionally, he is slated to preside over Easter Sunday Mass and deliver his Urbi et Orbi address, addressing global crises and threats to humanity.