Pope Francis’ two programmes were cancelled due to the advice of the doctor regarding his knee pain. The Vatican announced Friday that Pope Francis will no longer attend an international meeting of bishops and mayors in Florence, Italy.
The pope will also not be able to participate in the customary procession on Rome’s Aventine Hill and Mass at the Basilica of Santa Sabina for Ash Wednesday on 2 March, according to the Vatican.
“Due to acute gonalgia, for which his doctor has prescribed a period of more rest for his leg, Pope Francis will not be able to travel to Florence on Sunday, 27 February, or preside over Ash Wednesday celebrations on 2 March,” the Holy See press office said.
The statement did not address whether the Pope would preside over the Sunday Angelus at the Vatican or at his Wednesday general audience.