Pope Francis discussed the tiredness suffered by priests during his Holy Thursday homily in St. Peter's Basilica at the Vatican this week.
The pontiff acknowledged that priestly duties can be exhausting, and added, "I pray about it, often, especially when I am tired myself."
Holy Week is especially busy for the Pope, as he must conduct ceremonies and take part in rituals throughout Easter Sunday. The hectic pace further takes a toll on Francis because he only has one fully functioning lung. He lost most of the other long due to an infection in his 20s.
According to the Associated Press, Francis rises at 4:30 a.m. each morning to pray and meditate, works seven days a week, and dislikes vacations.
While sympathising with his fellow priests, the 78-year-old said there is a "good and healthy tiredness" in being a good leader.
"It is the exhaustion of the priest who wears the smell of his sheep, but also smiles the smile of a father rejoicing in his children or grandchildren," he explained.
On Thursday, the pope visited Rebibbia prison, where he washed the feet of a dozen inmates, and on Friday, he led the late night Via Crucis procession at Rome's Colosseum. This weekend is busy due to the Easter vigil on Saturday and Easter mass on Sunday.
Francis has stated on several occasions that his pontificate and life on Earth may not be for much longer.
He addressed his mortality directly in August 2014, when a reporter asked how he handles international fame.
"I try to think of my sins, my mistakes, not to become proud," Francis responded. "Because I know this will last a short time, two or three years, and then I'll be off to the house of the Father."
