Pope Francis Visits Roman Prison for Holy Thursday Despite Health Challenges

As part of his long-standing Holy Thursday tradition, Pope Francis visited Regina Coeli Prison in Rome, offering encouragement and blessings to inmates.

Though the Pope was unable to take part in this year’s traditional Washing of the Feet ceremony and the Lord’s Supper, he still made time to meet the inmates in person, continuing his practice of engaging with marginalized communities.

During his visit, the Holy Father addressed over 70 prisoners of various ages and nationalities gathered in the central rotunda of the historic prison located in the Trastevere district.

“I have always liked coming to prison on Holy Thursday to do the washing of the feet like Jesus,” Pope Francis told the inmates. “This year, I cannot do it, but I want to be close to you. I pray for you and your families.”

Despite his ongoing health concerns, the 88-year-old Pontiff made the journey to the facility, where he personally handed out pocket-sized copies of the Gospel and rosaries to each inmate.

Pope Francis had recently been discharged from Gemelli Hospital in Rome, where he was treated for pneumonia that affected both lungs. He had suffered two episodes of acute respiratory failure earlier in the year and has since been undergoing therapy and medical observation.

His visit to Regina Coeli serves as a testament to his compassion and unwavering commitment to outreach, particularly to those often overlooked in society.