VATICAN CITY, Vatican — April 3, 2026 — Pope Leo began his first Easter season as pontiff this week, presiding over a series of liturgies that Vatican officials say are meant to highlight humility, unity, and pastoral closeness at a time of global uncertainty.
The newly elected pope, who succeeded Pope Francis earlier this year, led the traditional Chrism Mass on Holy Thursday inside St. Peter’s Basilica. According to the Vatican Press Office, the celebration brought together hundreds of priests from the Diocese of Rome, who renewed their ordination promises as the pope blessed the sacred oils used in sacraments throughout the year.
In his homily, Pope Leo emphasized what he called “the quiet strength of service,” urging clergy to remain close to the people they serve. Vatican media reported that he spoke about the need for “patience, listening, and mercy” in pastoral life, themes that have been central to his early months in office.
Later in the evening, the pope traveled to a Roman shelter for migrants and unhoused residents, where he performed the ritual washing of the feet. The Holy See said the group included men and women from several countries, reflecting the pope’s stated commitment to supporting vulnerable communities. The gesture, rooted in the Gospel account of Jesus washing the feet of his disciples, has become a hallmark of modern papal Holy Week observances.
Observers noted that Pope Leo’s choice of venue echoed the approach of his predecessor, who often celebrated the Holy Thursday ritual outside the Vatican. Church analysts told Italian media that the decision signals continuity in prioritizing outreach and social justice.
The Easter Triduum — the three‑day period culminating in Easter Sunday — will continue with the Good Friday liturgy in St. Peter’s Basilica and the nighttime Way of the Cross at the Colosseum. Vatican officials said the meditations for this year’s procession were written by a group of young Catholics from conflict‑affected regions, focusing on themes of reconciliation and hope.
Crowds are expected to gather in St. Peter’s Square on Easter morning for Pope Leo’s first “Urbi et Orbi” blessing, traditionally delivered to the city of Rome and to the world. The Vatican has not released details of the message, though aides say it will address ongoing humanitarian crises and the need for international cooperation.
The pope’s inaugural Easter season comes as the Catholic Church faces internal debates over governance, declining participation in parts of Europe, and calls for renewed engagement with younger generations. Analysts say the tone he sets this week may offer early clues about his broader pastoral priorities.
Vatican spokesperson Matteo Bruni said in a briefing that the Holy Week liturgies are intended to “center the Church on the essentials of faith” and to encourage Catholics to “walk together in a spirit of compassion.”
As pilgrims continue to arrive in Rome, the atmosphere around the Vatican remains one of anticipation. For many, this Easter marks not only a celebration of the resurrection but also the beginning of a new chapter in the life of the Church under Pope Leo’s leadership.