Pope Pope Leo XIV marked his first Good Friday by personally carrying a wooden cross during the Way of the Cross procession at Rome’s Colosseum.

He led the opening of the 14 stations, accompanied by clergy and torchbearers, drawing thousands of attendees.

The meditations emphasized themes of responsibility, justice, and the moral weight of leadership in decisions affecting peace and conflict.

The pope said the act was meant as a spiritual sign that reflects shared human suffering and prayer, Politico has reported.

The procession included participants from around the world, highlighting the global significance of the event.