The children participated in a special ceremony at the Stations of the Cross and came from foster homes, a group of Boy Scouts and a local Catholic church.
Francisco chooses a group of people annually to write and read the service’s prayers.
The children formed the 2021 group and also produced some drawings for the event.
The images and prayers represent the 14 “stations” or events that preceded Jesus’ death, which is celebrated on Good Friday.
The Sistine Chapel choir was also present and sang “Crux Fidelis”, a Gregorian chant.
Traditionally, crowds flock to St. Peter’s Square for Good Friday and the Easter period, but due to coronavirus restrictions, the area was practically empty, with only the Pope, some guests and the children present.
This is the second Easter when restrictions on social distance have limited the number of believers in Rome.
The Pope was also seen prostrating himself on the floor of St. Peter’s Basilica during a service on Friday.
He will hold an Easter Sunday Mass in the Vatican on April 4, which will be followed by a papal blessing.
Delia Gallagher reported from Rome. Zamira Rahim wrote in London.