A frail Pope John Paul II struggled through Holy Thursday ceremonies in St Peter's Basilica yesterday.
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Pope John Paul II at yesterday's ceremony in Rome
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The Vatican said today he would not be able to fully participate in the rest of the planned Easter ceremonies because of his health.
Yesterday he twice ceded his place at the ornate main altar to other clerics. It was the second time in less than a week that John Paul has had to be replaced for portions of a major Holy Week ceremony.
The pontiff, who will be 82 in May and suffers from symptoms of Parkinson's, had a Mass in the morning and another one in late afternoon.
Symptoms of Parkinson's were evident. His hands trembled badly as he clasped them, and his speech was often slurred. He also seemed unsure of his balance, gripping the rail of his cart when raising his hand in blessing.