Pope Leo XIV Carries Cross Through Entire Good Friday Procession, First in Decades

Pope Leo XIV personally carried a wooden cross through all 14 stations of the Way of the Cross at the Colosseum on Good Friday, marking the first time in decades a pope has undertaken the entire procession.

Prior to the event, Pope Leo stated, "I think it will be an important sign because of what the pope represents, a spiritual leader in the world today, and for this voice, ... ."

The procession commenced inside the Colosseum, with Pope Leo flanked by two torchbear ... . It proceeded through the crowd outside and concluded atop the Palatine Hill, where he delivered the final blessing.

Approximately 30,000 faithful gathered to witness the event, including Sister Pelenatita Kieoma Finau from Samoa, who remarked, "We have been part of our parish stations of the cross, but this is so exciting. It is very meaningful to have the experience of being with the people of Rome on this special occasion."

The meditations for each station were composed by Rev. Francesco Patton, former custodian of the Holy Land, emphasizing themes of moral responsibility and the consequences of power.

Historically, Pope John Paul II carried the cross for the entire procession from 1979 until his hip surgery in 1995. His successors, Benedict XVI and Francis, did not carry the cross for the full procession due to health reasons.

At 70, Pope Leo XIV is noted for his physical fitness, being an avid tennis player and swimmer.

The Way of the Cross commemorates the final hours of Jesus' life, from his condemnation to his burial. The procession concludes atop the Palatine Hill.

Pope Leo's Holy Week observances will continue with an Easter Vigil on Holy Saturday and a Mass and blessing in St. Peter's Square on Easter Sunday.