As Holy Week unfolds today with Palm Sunday, Catholics around the world prepare to mark the most solemn period in the Christian calendar — a time to reflect on the suffering, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

For many, these days are a profound spiritual journey that renews their faith. Yet this year’s observance come with a note of uncertainty: Pope Francis’ participation in Easter celebrations remains unclear.

The Vatican has said that while the 88-year-old pontiff’s health is improving following a bout with pneumonia, it is too soon to confirm his presence during the most significant liturgical events of the year.

“There are improvements that you have been able to notice with the outings in the past days,” Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni said. However, “we are not making any particular forecasts for Holy Week,” he added, noting the decision would depend on both the Pope’s condition and the weather.

Francis made several surprise appearances this past week, including an impromptu visit to Saint Peter’s Basilica on Thursday.

Despite being urged to rest, the Pope — seen in informal attire and with a breathing cannula — greeted tourists and workers, appearing cheerful as he prayed quietly in the church.

Filipinos’ traditions

Meanwhile, Filipino Catholics are deep in their own Holy Week traditions — none more visible than the Visita Iglesia, a pilgrimage of prayer and reflection through at least seven churches on Maundy Thursday.

According to the Diocese of San Jose, the practice serves to symbolically accompany Christ during his passion. Pilgrims visit seven churches to pray, meditating on the Seven Last Words or the Seven Holy Wounds of Jesus. Others extend the devotion to 14 churches, aligning the stops with the Stations of the Cross.

For Jazzy Cruz, the Visita Iglesia is a cherished family tradition. “I pray that the Lord will guide us every day of our lives,” she told DAILY TRIBUNE in Filipino. “Visiting churches helps strengthen my faith.”

Cruz has visited nearly every major church in Manila and Bulacan with her family. This year, she plans to explore new ones in her province, including the St. James the Apostle Parish in Plaridel, St. Padre Pio Church in Baliuag, and the Jubilee churches in Malolos.

Meanwhile, Lorna Ventura, who has observed the Visita Iglesia for a decade, said her intentions remain constant each year. “Praying for my health, family, my children’s health, and for their success in life,” she said, adding that she’s usually joined by friends and fellow churchgoers.

The practice’s roots trace back to early Christian pilgrimages, and its spiritual focus remains essential today, according to the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP).

Fr. Jerome Secillano, CBCP spokesperson, emphasized that the Visita Iglesia should be approached as an act of devotion. “It’s not a socialization activity,” he said. “When you go there, make sure it’s for a sacred purpose and not for other practical or mundane purposes.”

Secillano called on the faithful to treat Holy Week as a time of introspection: “It’s about looking at ourselves and making all these sacrifices that we can, at least to share in Christ’s passion.”

As the week progresses, Catholics across the globe continue their observances in solemnity — whether through silent prayers in ancient basilicas or quiet walks between local churches — while waiting in hope that the Holy Father, too, may join them in celebrating Easter, even if only in spirit.