Filipino Catholics mark Palm Sunday praying for Pope Francis' health

Filipino Catholics wave their palm fronds for blessing during a Palm Sunday mass at the Antipolo Cathedral in Antipolo City, Rizal province, Philippines, on Sunday, April 2, 2023. - Reuters

ANTIPOLO, Philippines, April 2 (Reuters): Thousands of Filipino Catholics attending church on Palm Sunday marked the beginning of Holy Week with prayers for the health of Pope Francis as they presented palm fronds to be blessed.

At a church in Antipolo City about 20 km (12.4 miles) east of Manila, hundreds of devotees attended morning mass and waved palm fronds as a sign of discipleship and remembrance of Jesus Christ.