Pope Francis has decided to forego attending the traditional Good Friday Via Crucis at the Colosseum in Rome, in order to prioritize his health. The Press Office of the Holy See announced that the pontiff would not attend to preserve himself for the remaining Holy Week celebrations, which are significant for Christians. Instead, Pope Francis watched the Via Crucifixion from Casa Santa Marta to ensure his well-being for the upcoming events.
Despite his health concerns, Pope Francis has continued to fulfill his duties, such as washing the feet of inmates during a Holy Thursday ceremony. Due to previous respiratory issues following a recent flu, he has had to delegate speech readings and has shown signs of fatigue during long interventions. However, this year he personally wrote the meditations for the Via Crucifixion, a departure from previous traditions.
The decision to skip attending the Via Crucifixion is part of a proactive approach by Pope Francis to manage his health. While some may be disappointed by his absence, it is clear that his well-being is a top priority. By prioritizing his health and conserving his energy, Pope Francis can continue to serve and lead the Catholic community effectively.
