ROME, Italy — Pope Leo XIV led a torch-lit procession at the Colosseum in Rome on Friday as he prepares for his first Easter as pontiff in the shadow of war in the Middle East. Among the 30,000 people attending the poignant ceremony, known as the Way of the Cross, was Sarah, a Palestinian Catholic. They don't listen. On Sunday, Leo will preside over Easter Mass in St. Peter's Square before delivering a typically political blessing which is especially anticipated this year. Augustin Ancel, from Paris, said the pope carrying the cross was "a powerful message".

Source: Philippine Star April 04, 2026 08:04 UTC