Pope Francis took the lead in conducting an Easter Sunday Mass in St. Peter’s Square. In his Easter message, which holds significant importance for Christians, he urged everyone to pray for the victims of war and emphasized the need to put an end to ongoing conflicts.
During Easter, Francis shared his Easter message and blessing, known as the Urbi et Orbi blessing, which also included a plea for the release of hostages and prisoners of war.
In his address, he emphasized that it is Jesus who holds the power to open the doors of life, doors that we often close due to the ongoing wars in the world.
In expressing his condolences, he specifically mentioned his heartfelt thoughts for the individuals affected by the ongoing conflicts, such as the recent hostilities between Israel and Hamas.
“I am once again appealing for the assurance of access to humanitarian aid in Gaza, and I am also calling for the prompt release of the hostages who were seized on October 7th. Additionally, I am urging for an immediate cease-fire in the Strip,” he emphasized.
In a powerful speech delivered at the Vatican, Pope Francis urged for a prisoner exchange in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. The Pontiff also called for an immediate cessation of hostilities in various other conflicts, such as those in Haiti, Syria, and other parts of the world. His plea for peace resonated strongly as he addressed an audience comprising of approximately 350 cardinals, bishops, and priests.
“We commemorate this day as we rejoice in the resurrection of the Son, and in doing so, we should always bear in mind the boundless love that God has for each and every one of us. It is a love that transcends all boundaries and triumphs over any shortcomings,” he expressed.
In his statement, he expressed his hope for peace to prevail between Israel and Lebanon, as well as between Armenia and Azerbaijan. Furthermore, he encouraged leaders in the Western Balkans to embrace the diversity of their region and see it as an opportunity for growth, especially as some countries in the area move towards closer integration within the European project.
The Pope also expressed his plea for peace across Africa, acknowledging the persistent conflicts happening in Sudan, the Sahel region, the Horn of Africa, the Kivu region in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and the province of Capo Delgado in Mozambique.
He pleaded with God to put an end to the prolonged drought that is impacting vast areas and causing famine and hunger in the horn of Africa.
87-year-old Francis made his way to St. Peter’s Square on Sunday, just two days after not participating in the Way of the Cross procession on Good Friday. The Vatican press office explained that he had decided to skip the ceremony to prioritize his health, ensuring that he could attend the Easter Saturday vigil and Sunday Mass and blessing.
Francis has been struggling with breathing difficulties due to a cold and flu this year. However, the papal Easter ceremonies prove to be a challenge for the young man.
On Sunday at 10 a.m., Pope presided over the Mass in the Vatican’s main square, marking the day Christians celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Seated in front of the altar, the Pope stood to initiate the mass and later sat for most of the proceedings. The square was filled with tens of thousands of worshippers, gathering under an overcast sky.
After the Mass on Sunday, the Pope took a leisurely tour of Saint Peter’s Square in a white open-topped vehicle. With a relaxed demeanor and a cheerful disposition, he waved to the crowds of devoted followers who eagerly called out to him as he made his way through the square.
Shortly after, the pope delivered his Urbi et Orbi blessing from the main balcony of St. Peter’s facade.
“Why are we witnessing such immense loss of life? Why is there so much devastation? War is always a senseless and tragic outcome!” he passionately exclaimed. “We must not allow the winds of war to escalate across Europe and the Mediterranean. We must resist the urge to engage in an arms race and re-arm ourselves. True peace is never achieved through weapons, but through extending our hands and opening our hearts to one another.”
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