Catholics gather to hear Pope Francis give Easter Mass

Tens of thousands of Catholics will gather at St Peter's Square in Vatican City to hear Pope Francis celebrate Easter Mass and a traditional blessing.

The pope yesterday presided over the Easter Vigil at the Vatican in front of some 6,000 people from around the world, a day after his last-minute cancellation at a major Good Friday procession revived questions about his health. In a brief statement Friday, the Vatican had said that"to preserve his health ahead of tomorrow's vigil and the Easter Sunday mass, Pope Francis will this evening follow the Way of the Cross at the Colosseum from the Santa Marta Residence", where he lives.The last-minute decision raised questions about how long Francis can continue to lead the Catholic Church.

Up until Friday, the pope had attended his various engagements throughout the week, but he recently appeared tired and has sometimes delegated speaking roles to colleagues.

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