VATICAN CITY — Pope Leo XIV officially ushered in the solemn observance of Holy Week on Sunday, presiding over a sun-drenched Palm Sunday Mass in St. Peter’s Square before thousands of faithful gathered from around the world.
Clutching a traditional braided palm branch, the Pontiff led the procession to the altar, marking the start of the most sacred week in the Christian calendar. The ceremony, which commemorates Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem, served as a backdrop for the Pope’s urgent appeal for an end to the “senseless” violence currently gripping multiple regions across the globe.
In a soft but firm voice, Pope Leo XIV used his homily to reflect on the contrast between the jubilant crowds of the first Palm Sunday and the suffering found in modern-day war zones. He made specific mention of the escalating tensions in the Middle East and the ongoing humanitarian crises in Eastern Europe and Southeast Asia.
“The palms we carry are symbols of peace,” the Pope told the hushed crowd. “Let us not allow them to be withered by the heat of hatred or the coldness of indifference. We must choose the path of dialogue over the path of destruction.”
The 84-year-old Pontiff, who has recently faced minor mobility challenges, remained seated for much of the service but appeared energized as he moved through the square in the open-top “popemobile” following the Mass. He spent nearly half an hour weaving through the sections of the square, blessing children and waving to pilgrims who hoisted flags from dozens of nations.
During the Angelus prayer, the Pope also offered a special blessing for the “hidden heroes” of society—caregivers, medical workers, and those providing aid in conflict zones—urging the international community to prioritize human dignity over political gain.
The Vatican has released a full schedule for the remainder of Holy Week, including the Chrism Mass on Holy Thursday, the Way of the Cross at the Colosseum on Good Friday, and the culminating Easter Sunday “Urbi et Orbi” blessing. Security across Rome remains at a heightened state as millions of tourists are expected to descend on the Eternal City for the festivities.