Pope Francis Scales Back Easter Duties Amid Health Recovery, But Remains Determined to Show Up

VATICAN CITY – Easter this year is looking very different at the Vatican. As millions of Catholics around the world commemorate the most sacred week of the Christian calendar, Pope Francis is quietly recovering from a severe bout of pneumonia that nearly cost him his life.

Instead of leading the many solemn rituals and public liturgies of Holy Week, the 87-year-old pontiff has delegated much of the responsibility to senior cardinals. His doctors have advised a strict two-month recovery period, and Francis—now a month in—has been forced to ease back on public appearances and speaking engagements due to lingering issues with his voice.

Still, the pope’s resolve to remain visible during this holy season is unwavering. On Saturday, the Vatican confirmed that Francis hopes to deliver his traditional Urbi et Orbi (To the City and the World) Easter blessing from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica.

Even as he rests and undergoes daily physiotherapy at the Casa Santa Marta, Francis hasn’t stayed completely out of sight. On Holy Thursday, he made a surprise visit to Rome’s Regina Coeli prison—a gesture of solidarity with inmates he’s visited in years past. While he couldn’t perform his usual foot-washing ceremony, he offered heartfelt words:

“This year I cannot do it, but I can and want to be close to you. I pray for you and your families,” the pope told prisoners.

That moment reflects a hallmark of Francis’ papacy: humility and personal connection, especially with society’s most vulnerable.

While cardinals have stepped in to lead most of the public liturgies—including the Good Friday “Way of the Cross” at Rome’s Colosseum—Francis hasn’t stepped away entirely. He personally prepared the meditations for the service, according to a Vatican spokesperson.

Even in recovery, the pope continues to quietly guide the spiritual direction of the Church’s most meaningful observances.

After spending 38 days in the hospital, Francis is taking his health seriously. But that hasn’t stopped him from making unexpected appearances—sometimes wearing simple, casual clothing rather than the traditional white papal garments. On several occasions, he’s surprised worshippers at St. Peter’s Basilica after Mass.

While his energy is limited, the Vatican has remained on “high alert” for any last-minute changes or public moments, especially over Easter weekend.

Adding a layer of political nuance to the Easter story, U.S. Vice President JD Vance—an outspoken Catholic convert—was in Rome this weekend, attending Good Friday services and meeting with Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s Secretary of State.

The visit comes amid longstanding tensions between Vance’s political allies and the pope, particularly regarding immigration policy. Just before his hospitalization, Francis publicly criticized the Trump administration’s approach to migrants, calling for a more inclusive “order of love” based on the parable of the Good Samaritan.

Still, the Vatican continues to welcome dialogue, even with leaders they disagree with—emphasizing the Church’s tradition of diplomacy and bridge-building.

As Catholics worldwide turn their hearts to the resurrection of Christ, many will also be looking to St. Peter’s Square, hoping for even a brief appearance from Pope Francis on the iconic balcony.

It may not be the full Easter schedule he’s known for, but his presence—however limited—will serve as a powerful symbol of perseverance, humility, and faith in the face of adversity.

“When another government enters, you never know what opportunities there will be,” one Vatican source remarked—underscoring both the uncertainty and hope tied to Francis’ ongoing role on the global stage.