Unusual event: 25,000 people wait in St. Peter's Square - Pope foregoes sermon.
In Catholic tradition, it marks the start of Holy Week. Last year the Pope decided not to take part in the ceremony due to the cold weather. Current forecasts predict milder weather in Rome for the coming week, so the appointment of the head of the Catholic Church remains confirmed for the time being. Next Maundy Thursday Pope Francis is scheduled to celebrate a mass in the Rebibbia's women's prison in Rome.