The Pope delivers extensive instructions to priests during Holy Thursday Mass

Pope Francis delivered a message to his priests, urging them to avoid “clerical hypocrisy” and to treat their flocks with mercy. During a Holy Thursday Mass in St Peter’s Basilica, Francis blessed oils for church services and later washed the feet of inmates at a women’s prison as a symbol of humility and service. Despite his recent respiratory problems, Francis appeared in good form and delivered a lengthy homily, emphasizing the importance of showing mercy to the faithful and not judging them.

In his address, Francis warned priests against hypocrisy, urging them to reflect on their own sins and strive for honesty and sincerity in their spiritual lives. He encouraged them to repent of ingratitude and duplicity, emphasizing the importance of humility and self-awareness. The Mass marked the first major papal liturgy in St Peter’s Basilica since the renovation of Bernini’s baldacchino, a columned canopy over the altar.

Francis has a busy schedule ahead, with plans to participate in the Way of the Cross procession at the Colosseum on Friday, preside over an Easter Vigil and Mass in St Peter’s Basilica on Saturday, and deliver his Urbi et Orbi speech on Easter Sunday. These events will put his stamina to the test as he addresses global conflicts and disasters affecting humanity. Despite his age and recent health issues, Francis remains committed to his duties as the leader of the Catholic Church.

The Pope’s message to his priests reflects his emphasis on mercy, humility, and self-reflection in one’s spiritual journey. By cautioning against hypocrisy and encouraging a mindset of repentance and sincerity, Francis aims to guide his clergy towards a more compassionate and genuine approach to their ministry. As he prepares for the upcoming Easter celebrations, Francis continues to engage with the faithful and address pressing global issues with a focus on empathy and personal integrity.

Overall, Pope Francis’s call for priests to avoid hypocrisy and embrace mercy serves as a reminder of the core principles of Christianity. Through his example and teachings, Francis seeks to inspire a sense of humility and compassion in both clergy and laity, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and self-reflection in one’s spiritual life. As he prepares for the Easter celebrations, Francis remains dedicated to his mission of spreading the message of forgiveness and love to all.