Pope Francis made a surprise appearance in St. Peter’s Square after the Palm Sunday Mass, greeting the faithful and wishing them a happy Palm Sunday and Holy Week. Although he did not participate in the Mass due to his convalescence, the Pope’s message emphasized the importance of compassion and carrying the cross of Christ.
In his prepared homily read during the Mass, Pope Francis reflected on Simon of Cyrene, who helped Jesus carry the cross. The Pope encouraged the faithful to follow Simon’s example and reach out to those in need, recognizing the Lord in the faces of those torn by war and misery.
Pope Francis emphasized that Jesus’ passion becomes compassion when we help those who are helpless, lift up those who have fallen, and embrace those who are disconsolate. He encouraged the faithful to decide during Holy Week how to carry the cross, not just their own, but also that of those who suffer around them.
The Pope’s message highlighted the theme of redemption, emphasizing that God transforms the path to Calvary into a place of redemption. He encouraged the faithful to become “Cyrenians for one another,” carrying the cross of Christ in their hearts and sharing his saving love with others.