Pope Delivers Easter Message of Hope

• 03.27.2016, 09:20
•  Europe,  World

© saltandlighttv.org

Pope Francis preached an Easter message of hope after a grim week in Europe, calling on Christians not to let fear and pessimism "imprison" them. His message followed a condemnation on Friday of the Brussels terror attacks. Islamist violence is expected to be a prominent theme of his traditional "Urbi et Orbi" Easter message.

Speaking  amid tight security at the Vatican, the Pope said: "Let us not allow darkness and fear to distract us and control our hearts", BBC reports.

Delivering his homily, Francis said: "Today is the celebration of our hope. It is so necessary today."

As the Pontiff entered a darkened basilica with just a single candle guiding him and reached the altar, the basilica's floodlights came on to symbolise the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

The lengthy vigil service also included a papal baptism for 12 adults hailing from China, South Korea and other countries around the world.

Today, Francis will preside over Easter Mass and deliver his annual Easter blessing.

Meanwhile, Vatican officials distributed sleeping bags to 100 homeless people.

The police presence in the streets around the Vatican has been stepped up this year, as more pilgrims than usual are expected after Francis declared a jubilee year for the Catholic Church, calling it a "Holy Year of Mercy".