Vatican News: Pope Leo XIV led the Good Friday Way of the Cross at the Colosseum, drawing thousands of faithful into a solemn night of prayer and reflection on the suffering of Christ and the pain of the world today.
In a powerful and symbolic gesture, Pope personally carried the wooden cross through all fourteen stations. This marked a rare moment in recent history, as it is uncommon for a pope to carry the cross for the entire procession.
The candle lit ceremony followed the traditional Stations of the Cross, recalling the final moments of Jesus Christ before his death. The atmosphere was quiet and prayerful as around thirty thousand people gathered in Rome, with many more following the event around the world.
The reflections during the service focused strongly on human suffering and injustice. Prayers were offered for victims of war, refugees, migrants, and children affected by violence and displacement. There was also a special intention for those who suffer from human trafficking and for families separated by conflict.
The meditations delivered a clear moral message, reminding world leaders of their responsibility to use power with justice and compassion. The prayers stressed that decisions made in times of conflict carry deep consequences for human life and dignity.
Throughout the ceremony, Pope emphasized the need for conversion of heart, calling people to respond to suffering with love and solidarity. He invited the faithful to see the suffering of Christ in the struggles faced by people across the world today.
The Way of the Cross at the Colosseum remains one of the most important moments of Holy Week in the Catholic Church. It forms part of the Easter celebrations in Rome, leading to the Easter Vigil and Easter Sunday Mass at St Peter’s Basilica.
This year’s celebration stood out for its strong personal and global message, as Pope combined a traditional devotion with a renewed call for peace, responsibility, and care for the most vulnerable.