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Pope Francis’s frail health prompts historic change on Palm Sunday
For the first time, the Pope did not deliver the homily during the Palm Sunday Mass, which marks the beginning of Holy Week.
Pope Francis took the faithful gathered in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican by surprise by not reading the homily prepared for the Palm Sunday Mass, heralding the start of Holy Week. With over 25,000 people awaiting his words, the pontiff remained silent instead of delivering a speech.
This is the first time a Pope has not given a homily on Palm Sunday, though strictly there is no rule requiring it and it can indeed be omitted and replaced by a moment of silence for personal reflection. The decision however does underscore the growing concern over the current health status of Pope Francis.
Pope’s health under the spotlight
For more than three weeks, the Pope has been grappling with health issues, having suffered from a flu that has impaired his ability to read lengthy speeches.
This difficulty was also apparent during last Wednesday’s general audience, when an assistant had to read the catechesis in lieu of the Pope, who explained that he was unable to due to his respiratory problems.
During the Palm Sunday Mass, Francis led prayers for the victims in Moscow, Ukraine, and Gaza, expressing his concern over the violent incidents in these regions and calling for peace.