Pope Francis surprises by omitting homily at Palm Sunday Mass in Vatican

Pope Francis surprised everyone by not giving a homily during the Palm Sunday Mass service at the Vatican. Despite this, he still led the service and even took a ride in the popemobile.

This service signifies the start of Holy Week, the most important week in the church's calendar as Christians globally get ready to observe Easter. The Pope's choice to skip the homily caught many off guard.

In the past few weeks, the 87-year-old has had aides reading out some of his speeches due to his recent health issues. On 28 February, he went to the hospital for tests after experiencing a bout of ill health.

During the winter months, Francis has been struggling with bouts of bronchitis, colds, and flu.

Crowds gather in St. Peter's Square during the Palm Sunday mass.

Crowds gather in St. Peter's Square during the Palm Sunday mass.

Gregorio Borgia/AP

While the pope has occasionally skipped homilies on Easter Sunday, it is the first time he has not given a homily on Palm Sunday.

Francis participated in the Mass by speaking, reading prayers, and giving his blessing. He also prayed the Angelus at the end of the service, mentioning the "martyred people of Ukraine" and those affected by war.

After the Mass, he personally greeted cardinals one by one from his wheelchair, which he has been using for a few months. Later, he rode in the popemobile to greet the large crowd of people gathered in the square.

After the service, he spoke out against the horrific concert hall shooting in Moscow, calling it "vile." Pope Francis expressed his prayers for the victims of this terrible terrorist attack, which is considered the worst that Russia has experienced in recent decades.

During the weekend, the pope had a meeting with employees of the Italian state broadcaster RAI, where he gave a speech. He also spent time on 8 March giving a detailed talk at a parish located outside of Rome.

Holy Week and Easter can be quite busy for the pope. He will visit a prison outside of Rome on Thursday to participate in the foot washing ritual with female prisoners. Then, on Good Friday, he will attend services at St. Peter’s and the Colosseum.

As Easter Saturday evening approaches, the pope is scheduled to lead a long evening liturgy. Finally, on Easter Sunday, he will give his “Urbi et Orbi” blessing to the city of Rome and the world.

Editor's P/S:

Pope Francis's unexpected decision not to deliver a homily during Palm Sunday Mass has stirred a mix of surprise and concern among the faithful. While the Pope's health issues have been well-documented, his absence from the homily, typically a central part of the service, raised questions about his physical well-being and the implications for his upcoming Holy Week observances. The Pope's frail appearance as he greeted cardinals from his wheelchair and his use of the popemobile to navigate the crowds further reinforced these concerns.

Despite his physical limitations, Pope Francis's participation in the Mass, his prayers for the Ukrainian people, and his condemnation of the Moscow concert hall shooting showcased his unwavering dedication to his pastoral duties. His ability to lead the service, pray the Angelus, and give his blessing demonstrated his resilience and determination to connect with the faithful, even amidst his health challenges. It remains to be seen how his health will affect his participation in the busy Holy Week schedule, but the Pope's commitment to serving the church and his compassion for those suffering are evident.