Pope Francis sidelined as Vatican adjusts Easter services

Pope Francis will not preside over the main Easter services at the Vatican this year due to his recent health struggles following a prolonged hospitalization for bilateral pneumonia. While the Pope is reportedly recovering and has resumed some limited activities, including unannounced visits to basilicas and a public audience with his medical team, he remains on the sidelines for the most significant Holy Week liturgies. Designated cardinals have been appointed to lead the Good Friday, Holy Saturday, and Easter Sunday ceremonies in his place, with Francis contributing by composing the meditations for the Via Crucis procession. The Vatican has emphasized that although Francis' voice remains labored, his condition is improving and he is less reliant on supplemental oxygen. The Pope's inability to lead these services comes after a serious illness that required 38 days in the hospital, during which his life was reportedly at risk multiple times. Despite these challenges, Francis made his first public appearance post-hospitalization on April 6.