What Pope Francis Has Done During Holy Week Leaves Many Worried

Holy Week, one of the most significant and demanding dates in the Vatican's liturgical calendar, has been marked this year by Pope Francis's discreet and limited participation. After several months with health problems, he has spent these days secluded in his residence at Santa Marta, still unable to preside over most of the events.

Brief Appearances and Exceptional Measures

Throughout the week, Pope Francis has been practically absent from the Vatican's major rituals, an unusual fact that has caused concern among the faithful and observers. He has only been seen at specific moments and for very short periods. His most notable presence took place this very Easter Sunday, a key date for Christianity with the celebration of Christ's Resurrection.

At exactly 12 o'clock, the curtains of the central balcony of St. Peter's Basilica opened for a desired image. Pope Francis appeared to impart the traditional "Urbi et Orbi" blessing. This appearance, although brief, was especially significant.

It should be mentioned that this is a rite that can only be officiated by the pontiff himself, with no possibility of delegation. This detail has led many to reflect on his actual state of health. Would the Pope have appeared if it were not an essential ceremony?

A Fragile Health State, but with Positive Progress

Although his condition is stable and without recent relapses, Pope Francis continues to face significant physical limitations. He continues with respiratory and motor physiotherapy sessions. Additionally, although at times he can do without the nasal cannula that helps him breathe, his lung capacities are still far from being recovered.

His voice is also very affected, preventing him from speaking for extended periods. This state has forced him to delegate most of the Holy Week liturgical functions to other members of the clergy. From the celebrations of Holy Thursday and Good Friday to the Easter Vigil on Saturday night, Pope Francis's presence has been replaced by collaborators.

Message of Hope and Calm Amid Uncertainty

Despite the understandable concern, Vatican sources have insisted that the Pope's progress is positive, albeit slow. The treatment continues its course, and there are increasingly more moments when he can perform activities without constant respiratory assistance.

Pope Francis's reappearance, although brief, was received with emotion by the thousands of faithful gathered in St. Peter's Square. Many interpreted it as a gesture of strength and commitment, even in difficulty. In his message, Francis once again showed his closeness to the most vulnerable and shared his wishes for peace in a world shaken by conflicts and inequality.

A Recovery Without a Clear Date

The truth is that, for now, the Pope remains far from being able to resume his usual schedule. His recovery process has no defined deadlines and will depend on how his respiratory capacities and physical endurance evolve in the coming weeks.

Meanwhile, the Vatican continues to adapt the pontiff's activity to his health condition. They hope that in the near future he can once again lead the year's most important ceremonies, as he has done since the beginning of his papacy.