Pope Francis led the liturgy of the Passion and Death of Jesus Christ at St. Peter's Basilica on Good Friday, a day when Holy Mass is not celebrated. The liturgy consisted of three parts: the Liturgy of the Word, the Adoration of the Cross, and Holy Communion. Cardinal Raniero Cantalamessa delivered a homily focusing on Jesus's 'I Am' declaration, its metaphysical dimension, and its connection to God's self-revelation in the Old Testament. He discussed the reversal of the human idea of God that Jesus represented, emphasizing God's power of self-concealment and voluntary powerlessness. The Cardinal also highlighted the universal significance of Christ's word, the invisible and eternal triumph of the Resurrection, and the Lord's humility and concern for His disciples. He concluded by inviting all who are burdened to find rest and consolation in Jesus.

During the Chrism Mass at St. Peter's Basilica on Holy Thursday, Pope Francis delivered a homily focusing on the theme of compunction, a spiritual sorrow that leads to repentance and renewal. He emphasized the importance of priests allowing themselves to be forgiven and to weep for their sins, as well as for the sins of others, as a way to purify and heal the heart. The Pope encouraged priests to become more like children in their prayer, growing simpler and deeper in adoration of God. He also urged them to broaden their horizons, spend time with the Lord, and rediscover the prayer of the heart. Pope Francis concluded by thanking the priests for their service and praying for the Lord to console, strengthen, and reward them.

Pope Francis, addressing Italian-speaking pilgrims at the Wednesday General Audience in St. Peter's Square, appealed for the release of Israeli hostages by Hamas and the entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza. He also invited the faithful to a Day of Prayer, Fasting, and Penance for Peace. Amidst the conflict, over 1,400 Israeli civilians and 5,700 Palestinian civilians, including 2,300 minors, have been killed. International efforts are underway to facilitate a ceasefire and deliver aid to Gaza. The UN warns of a halt in its operations without fresh fuel supplies, while Israel accuses Hamas of fuel stockpiling.

Paolo Ruffini, Prefect of the Dicastery for Communication and President of the Commission for Information, briefed journalists on the Synod's initial phase, emphasizing listening and confidentiality as outlined by Pope Francis. The 35 working groups, or 'circuli minores,' began by sharing experiences of synodality. The Synod, taking place at the Vatican, is seen as a time for the Catholic Church to pause and listen, which Ruffini suggests could also benefit global issues like war and climate crisis. The process involves elected rapporteurs from each group presenting convergences and divergences, with the final report in October to reflect the ongoing journey rather than conclusive decisions. The Synod is characterized by active participation and common discernment, aiming to listen and discern as a whole Church.