Pope presides over Easter Sunday Mass despite health challenges

Pope Francis led Easter celebrations with 60,000 people despite battling respiratory problems. He made an appeal for peace in Gaza and a prisoner swap between Russia and Ukraine. The Mass took place in St Peter’s Square, with Francis emphasizing the importance of peace over weapons. He expressed concern for those in Ukraine, Gaza, and other areas facing conflict, particularly children affected by war. Francis has been conserving his health by avoiding long speeches, but successfully participated in Easter services. King Charles III also made a public appearance at an Easter service in Britain after being diagnosed with cancer.

In Jerusalem, Easter Mass at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre saw only a few dozen attendees due to the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza. The Old City’s streets were empty of Palestinian Christians from the West Bank, who require special permission to travel to Jerusalem. In Iraq’s Nineveh Plains, where ISIS previously targeted minority Iraqis, hundreds celebrated Easter. The Christian community in Iraq has decreased significantly from 1.5 million to a few hundred thousand, but many remain determined to stay in the region.

The Vatican reported around 60,000 people attended the Easter Mass in St Peter’s Square, with more gathering in the surrounding area. During the service, a gust of wind knocked over a religious icon, but it was quickly righted. The pope expressed his hope for peace and highlighted the need for respecting international law in global conflicts. He called for the release of prisoners in various regions and emphasized the impact of war on children. Francis has been careful to avoid overexerting himself due to his respiratory issues, but was able to fully participate in Easter services and deliver his speech.

While Easter Mass in St Peter’s Square was attended by thousands, only a few dozen people were present at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem due to the conflict in Gaza. The ongoing war has also affected tourism and pilgrimages in the region. In Iraq, the Christian community celebrated Easter in an area where ISIS previously targeted them. Despite a significant decline in their population, many Iraqis remain committed to staying in the region. Pope Francis and other leaders offered a sense of stability during the Easter holiday, emphasizing the importance of peace and unity in the midst of global crises.