Pope Francis skipped the traditional Good Friday procession at Rome's Colosseum to protect his health, the Vatican said, making a last-minute decision that added to concerns about his frail condition during a particularly busy period.
But just as the event was about to begin, the Vatican announced that Francis was following the event from his home at the Vatican.
Brian Hopp, a visitor from Chicago, noted that Francis has had his health challenges this year.
I think a lot was taken into it and I think he probably prioritized his health for Easter, which I think is a very responsible thing to do," Hopp said.
On Thursday, he left the Vatican to preside over the Holy Thursday foot-washing ritual at a Rome women's prison.
Persons:
Pope Francis, Francis, Monsignor Leonardo Sapienza, Marlene Steuber, Brian Hopp, Hopp, Peter's
Organizations:
Vatican, Casa Santa
Locations:
Costa Rica, Rome, Chicago, St, Peter's