Pope Francis, at the age of 88, did not attend the Via Crucis at the Colosseum for the second consecutive year on April 18, 2025, due to his recovery from bilateral pneumonia. However, he prepared the meditations for the event, which reflect on the Calvary journey and the possibility of changing the course of things in a world that seems to be falling apart.
The meditations, filled with theological and pastoral insights, intertwine deep invocations, prayers, and even poetry. In a poignant reflection, Pope Francis stated, "Our wounded coexistence, O Lord, in this world in pieces, needs sincere tears, not circumstantial ones. Otherwise what the apocalyptic predicted will come true: we no longer generate anything and then everything collapses." This statement underscores the urgent need for genuine compassion in times of crisis.
Throughout his meditations, the Pope emphasized the dire state of the global economy, warning against a system where "ninety-nine is worth more than one." He cautioned that we have built a world governed by calculations and cold logic, saying, "We have built a world that works like this: calculations, cold logic, and implacable interests." He called for a return to a more humane approach, asserting that "the law of your house, divine economy, is another." This reflects his belief that God's economy does not kill, discard, or crush people.
In his reflections, the Pope also highlighted the struggles faced by the most vulnerable members of society, including children, insecure adolescents, and those without power or money. He described the Church as a "field hospital," where the focus should be on healing and compassion rather than maintaining facades. He stated, "Masks, beautiful facades are no longer needed. God sees the heart, loves the heart, warms the heart." This powerful message resonates in a world increasingly dominated by technology and algorithms.
During the traditional Good Friday service, Vice President of the United States, J.D. Vance, attended with his family. He is scheduled to meet with Cardinal Pietro Parolin on April 19, 2025. The meeting is seen as a potential opportunity to ease the ongoing tensions regarding immigration policies between the new administration and the American episcopate.
At the service, Father Roberto Pasolini, the preacher of the Papal Household, spoke about the "intelligence of the Cross," which does not rely on calculations but on love. He stated, "In a time like ours, rich with new artificial intelligences, the mystery of the passion and death of Christ proposes another type of intelligence: the intelligence of the Cross, which does not calculate, but loves; which does not optimize, but gives itself." This reflects a call to return to authentic choices based on love rather than efficiency.
As Pope Francis remains in recovery, he has delegated the celebration of the Easter Vigil to Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re. The Pope is expected to impart the Urbi et Orbi blessing at noon on April 20, 2025, a moment that many will be eagerly awaiting.
The meditations for the Via Crucis serve as a spiritual testament, intertwining various approaches to address the pressing issues of our time. Pope Francis' words remind us that even amidst personal struggles, the call to compassion and change remains strong.
As the world grapples with numerous challenges, the Pope's reflections resonate deeply. He urges individuals to reconsider their paths and strive for a society rooted in love and understanding. The need for sincere tears and compassion is more crucial than ever in a world that often prioritizes efficiency over humanity.
In conclusion, the absence of Pope Francis at the Via Crucis does not diminish the impact of his words. His meditations offer a clarion call to humanity, urging us to embrace a more compassionate and humane approach to our shared existence. As we move forward, let us heed his message and strive for a world where love triumphs over cold calculations.
