(April 9, 2006)-- Pope Benedict, who turns 79 on Easter Sunday, has planned a heavy schedule of Holy Week appearances.

On Sunday he'll bless palm and olive branches during a Palm Sunday procession and will then celebrate Mass.

On Good Friday, the Pope conducts a service in St. Peter's Basilica and a few hours later presides over the traditional "Way of the Cross" evening procession at the Colosseum.

Benedict will usher in Easter with a candlelit service in the basilica on the night of April 15th and then celebrate Mass Sunday morning on the steps of the basilica for tourists and pilgrims, followed by greetings and his blessing.

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