Sunday 31 March 2013

The Papal Mass of Easter Day


We are pleased to conclude our coverage of the Holy Week Liturgies with these images of the celebration by Pope Francis of the Easter Day Mass in S' Peter's Square.

During this Mass, the Pope was assisted by the Cardinal-deacons, but as is customary for the Papal Mass of Easter Day, there were no concelebrants.

Once again, Pope Francis gave Holy Communion to all the deacons of the Mass (including the Cardinal deacons) under both Species.  The deacons received Communion on the tongue, whilst kneeling.

It seems that Pope Francis prefers not to distribute Holy Communion to representatives of the Faithful during the Solemn Papal Masses.

These are the copyright of Getty Images.


A sea of flowers surrounded the altar in S' Peter's Square.

The Papal Procession approaches the Altar.

The Proclamation of the Resurrection which preceded the Papal Mass.

Ascending to the Altar, vested in a splendid antependium.

Kissing the Altar with the Cardinal-deacons.

Incensing the Altar.

Incensing the Holy Icon of Christ.