Vatican City – A crowd of more than twenty thousand faithful filled St. Peter’s Square for the celebration of Palm Sunday, which marks the beginning of Holy Week.
The mass, presided over by Cardinal Leonardo Sandri on behalf of Pope Francis, was characterized by an unexpected moment: at the end of the service, the Pontiff made his appearance, warmly greeting those present and giving sweets to the children.
“Happy Palm Sunday, Happy Holy Week!” exclaimed Francis, greeted by a standing ovation. The Pope, who was not wearing his usual oxygen support, showed renewed vigor, interacting with the crowd and exchanging words of comfort and hope.
In the homily, written by Pope Francis and read by Cardinal Sandri, the Pontiff emphasized the presence of God "in the faces torn apart by war and poverty", inviting the faithful to recognize "the many Cyreneans who carry the cross of Christ". An appeal for compassion and solidarity, in a historical moment marked by conflict and suffering.
During the Angelus, Francis expressed gratitude for the prayers received, asking to “entrust to the Lord all those who suffer, especially those affected by war, poverty or natural disasters”. A renewed appeal for peace resounded forcefully, with specific references to Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Myanmar, South Sudan and Lebanon, recalling the 50th anniversary of the start of the civil war.
The Pontiff also expressed closeness to the victims of the collapse of a club in Santo Domingo and turned his thoughts to Sudan, on the second anniversary of the beginning of the conflict.
The celebration of Palm Sunday thus took on an even deeper meaning, with a message of hope and peace that rose from the heart of Christianity.
Article published on 13 April 2025 - 13:44
It was a very important and moving event, but I wonder why the Pope did not use oxygen. His presence was a sign of strength and courage, but it is also risky not to take care of one's health.