April 14, 2017 / 11:54 AM

Pope Francis delivers Good Friday service

April 14 (UPI) -- Pope Francis is observing Good Friday by giving his annual prayer at St. Peter's Basilica at the Vatican.

The speech was scheduled to begin 11 a.m. EDT.

The pontiff often speaks about current world events and societal issues during his annual "Celebration of the Passion of Our Lord" homily.

Good Friday is a holiday Christians observe to commemorate the crucifixion of Jesus during Holy Week. Two days later, on Easter Sunday, they observe Jesus' resurrection.

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