Pope John Paul began a gruelling Holy Week programme yesterday, blessing thousands of young Catholics, palm fronds and olive branches in a colourful Palm Sunday service.
Under a bright blue spring sky, a crowd of young people opened the ceremony by parading lush green palm fronds into Saint Peter's Square, followed by bishops, cardinals and the Pope in bright white and red vestments.
Palm Sunday this year coincided with the Catholic Church's World Youth Day, which was held in Rome.
The Pope (80) welcomed young Catholics from around Italy, who brought with them a huge cross which had been carried around the country over the last year.