Pope Francis Sheds New Light

Pope Francis didn't decide that the Easter Vigil Mass, the opening celebration of the holiest day of the year for Christians, would be the first time he would refrain from doing things "his way" as the Catholic Church's newest leader.

Pope Francis celebrated a simplified Easter Vigil service after reaching out to Muslims and women during a Holy Week in which he has began to put his mark on the Catholic Church, reports The Associated Press and Fox News.

Francis processed into a darkened and silent St. Peter's Basilica at the start of the Saturday service, which recalls the period between Christ's crucifixion on Good Friday and resurrection on Easter Sunday. One of the most dramatic moments of the Easter Vigil service -- when the pope would share the light of his candle with others until the entire basilica twinkled -- was shortened this year as were some of the Old Testament readings.

The Vatican has said these provisions are in keeping with Francis' aim to not have his Masses go on too long. Let us know what you think of Pope Francis' new approach to the papacy on Facebook.