Pope John Paul did not read the catechesis during Wednesday’s general audience following a recommendation of his personal physician, Dr. Renato Buzzonetti.

The Vatican spokesman, Dr. Joaquin Navarro-Valls, announced that, “following the advice of his personal physician, the Holy Father, given the lengthy commitments of Holy Week, will not personally read the text of the general audience.”

The Pontiff did read the numerous greetings in different languages for the pilgrims present at the audience.