Pope Francis embarked on a series of events leading to Easter on Thursday (March 28) with vigor, renewing his ordination vow on the occasion marking Jesus’s establishment of the priesthood. Despite recent health concerns, the Pontiff, appearing well, delivered a lengthy homily during the Holy Thursday “Mass of the Chrism” at St. Peter’s Basilica.
Encouraging priests to embrace compassion and honesty, Francis emphasized the importance of acknowledging personal shortcomings. Alongside thousands of priests, the 87-year-old renewed his vows during the service, blessing oils integral to Church sacraments.
Holy Thursday, commemorating Jesus’ Last Supper, holds profound significance in Christian tradition. Later in the day, Pope Francis was scheduled to preside over a foot-washing ritual at a Rome prison, underscoring themes of humility and service central to Easter observance.