For a
few pilgrims, Pope Francis will be their confessor on Friday, March 8.
At 4:30pm, he will be at the parish of St. Pius V, less than 2 miles from the Vatican.
This is a tradition that is part of the “24 Hours for the Lord” initiative.
It is a special event in preparation for Holy Week and 2024 marks the eleventh edition.
Up until last year, the Pope heard confessions as part of this project in St. Peter's Basilica. But in 2023, he left the Vatican to be at a parish in Rome.
During his reflection, he encouraged priests to always forgive without judging the person.
POPE FRANCIS
And here I turn to my brother confessors today. Please brothers, forgive everything.
Let people state their business and you receive it as Jesus, with the caress of your gaze, with the silence of your understanding.
Please, the Sacrament of Confession is not to torture people but to give peace.
This initiative does not only take place in Rome but in dioceses all over the world.
Pope Francis chose this year's theme: “Walk in newness of life.”