In an unexpected move, Pope Francis chose not to deliver his homily during the Palm Sunday Mass service at the Vatican on Sunday. The decision came as a surprise to many, as the service marks the beginning of Holy Week, the most sacred week in the church's calendar leading up to Easter.

At 87 years old, Pope Francis has been facing health issues in recent weeks. Aides have read out several of his speeches after he suffered from a bout of ill health and underwent hospital tests on February 28. Throughout the winter months, the Pope has been dealing with bronchitis, cold, and flu.

While the Pope has occasionally skipped giving a homily on Easter Sunday in the past, this is the first time he has chosen not to give one on Palm Sunday. Despite this decision, he still presided over the Mass, reading prayers and giving his blessing. He also prayed for the "martyred people of Ukraine" and expressed his solidarity with those suffering from war.

Following the end of the liturgy, Pope Francis greeted cardinals individually from his wheelchair, which he has been using for several months. He then made use of the popemobile to greet the thousands of people gathered in St. Peter's Square.

In addition to his activities during the Palm Sunday service, Pope Francis spoke out against the "vile" concert hall shooting in Moscow that took place recently. He condemned the terrorist attack, offering prayers for the victims. The attack is considered the worst that Russia has experienced in recent decades.

Prior to the Palm Sunday celebrations, the Pope had met with employees from Italian state broadcaster RAI on Saturday, where he delivered a speech. On March 8, he also spoke at length at a parish in Rome.

As Holy Week progresses, Pope Francis's schedule remains intensive. On Thursday, he is scheduled to travel to a prison outside Rome to celebrate the foot washing ritual with female prisoners. On Good Friday, he will be present at services held in St Peter's and the Colosseum. On Easter Saturday evening, he will preside over a long evening liturgy, and on Easter Sunday, he will offer his "Urbi et Orbi" blessing to the city of Rome and the world.

Despite his recent health issues, Pope Francis continues to fulfill his duties as the spiritual leader of the Catholic Church, offering prayers and support to those in need.