Pope Francis conducted a solemn Easter vigil Mass in St. Peters' Basilica Saturday to usher in the most important day on the Roman Catholic liturgical calendar.<br/> <br />The 76 year old newly appointed pontiff urged parishioners not to be afraid of God's surprises, and to be confident that he is close to you.<br/> <br />Wearing relatively less elaborate white vestments than the robes preferred by his predecessor Benedict, Francis has brought a simpler style to the papacy.<br/> <br />He also prefers speaking from behind a lectern like an ordinary priest as opposed to being seated on a throne.<br/> <br />Later he baptised four new members of the Church.<br/> <br />Sunday, Pope Francis will deliver a message from the central balcony of St. Peter's Basilica to tens of thousands of people in the square below.
