At 16.45 this afternoon, Good Friday, the Holy Father Francis presided at the celebration of the Passion of the Lord in the Vatican Basilica.

During the Liturgy of the Word, the account of the Passion according to John was read, then a homily was delivered by the Preacher of the Papal Household, Fr. Raniero Cantalamessa, O.F.M. Cap.

The Liturgy of the Passion was followed by the universal Prayer and the adoration of the Holy Cross, and concluded with Holy Communion.