Frail Pope Francis takes back seat as Catholic Church marks Holy Week
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Ailing Pope takes reduced role in Holy Week services
- Pope Francis, 88, is taking a reduced role in Holy Week services due to his ongoing recovery from severe pneumonia.
- Cardinals will lead major liturgical events, a significant change for the Vatican's most solemn period.
- While the Pope is expected to make some appearances, his participation will be limited compared to previous years.
- His health is improving, with less reliance on supplemental oxygen, and he recently held his first formal audience since returning to the Vatican from hosppital.
- Despite delegating celebrations, Pope Francis personally wrote the meditations for the Good Friday Via Crucis procession.