Pope Francis misses Urbi et Orbi blessing for Easter for the first time!

Pope Francis misses Urbi et Orbi blessing for Easter for the first time!

The Vatican is facing an unusual Easter celebration, as Pope Francis is unlikely to be able to take part in the “Urbi et Orbi” blessing. The 88-year-old pope has retired after a 37-day hospital stay and must rest for at least two months on the advice of his doctors. This decision has not only personal but also historical dimensions, since the blessing has not been given by a representative since the 14th century.

Despite these setbacks, the program for Holy and Easter week has been set. How oe24 reports, Cardinal Pietro Parolin will give the “Urbi et Orbi” blessing on Easter Sunday on behalf of the Pope. This may be the first time in nearly 700 years that this blessing will not be given by the Pope himself. Karl Rahner, a conservative theologian, has pointed out the need for a clear legal framework for such delegations.

Easter celebration program

The Vatican Liturgy Office has published the detailed program for Holy and Easter days. A mass will take place in St. Peter's Square on Palm Sunday, April 13, followed by other important liturgical events. The most important dates include:

• Gründonnerstag, 17. April: Chrisam-Messe im Petersdom um 9.30 Uhr.
• Karfreitag, 18. April: Liturgie vom Leiden Jesu im Petersdom um 17 Uhr.
• Kreuzweg am Kolosseum um 21.15 Uhr.
• Osternacht im Petersdom am Samstag, 19. April, um 19.30 Uhr.
• Ostersonntag, 20. April: Messfeier auf dem Petersplatz um 10.30 Uhr und Segen „Urbi et Orbi“.
• Weißen Sonntag, 27. April: Messfeier mit der Heiligsprechung von Carlo Acutis.

These events, led by various cardinals, continue to showcase the living tradition of the church, even in the absence of the pope. The Good Friday Way of the Cross will be led by Cardinal Baldo Reina, while Cardinal Mauro Gambetti will celebrate the Last Supper Mass.

Pope's health

The pope's health remains a central issue. He is receiving medication and physical therapy to strengthen his respiratory and motor skills. The Vatican spokesman has made it clear that his participation depends entirely on his recovery process. Public appearances will not be held for the time being in order not to endanger the Pope's health.

Cardinal Gianfranco Ravasi emphasized that Pope Francis can continue to communicate despite his physical limitations, citing the broken words of John Paul II. He also had limited communication during his time as pope due to his illness.

The Urbi et Orbi blessing is not only a symbol of the papal office, but is also associated with a plenary indulgence for the faithful, which underlines the importance of this delegation. Much seems to depend on the next few weeks, when doctors will decide when Pope Francis can return to his regular rhythm. The situation therefore remains tense as the whole world looks ahead to the upcoming Easter, even without the Pope's usual presence during this period.