Pope John Paul II may resort to a video link to participate in a Good Friday procession later in the day in Rome, depending on his health.
The 84-year-old pontiff, who was twice hospitalized earlier this year, has delegated senior Roman Catholic Church officials all week to take part in celebrations leading up to Easter Sunday.
In February, he required two hospital stays and had a tube inserted in his throat to help with breathing difficulties. The pontiff also suffers from Parkinson's disease.
On Friday, he may participate by video link in the Way of the Cross procession, an event in which Catholic clergy and faithful commemorate the death of Jesus.
The pope is expected to deliver his traditional "Urbi et Orbi" blessing on Easter Sunday.
Some information for this report provided by AFP, AP, Reuters.
