Pope Francis holds his first easter mass as Pope in a solemn yet joyful service in St. Peter's Square.
Francis, took his name in honor of St. Francis of Assisi, who is revered as a symbol of austerity.
Easter Sunday, is the day Christians believe Jesus was resurrected from the dead three days after his crucifixion.
About 250,000 people attend the service.
Some held a banner saying Papa we love you lots.
Following the service Pope Francis traveled through the St. Peters square.
He embraced children in the crowd.
Later the pontiff headed to the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica to deliver his Easter address.
(SOUNDBITE) (Italian) POPE FRANCIS SAYING:
"Dear brothers and sisters in Rome and throughout the world, (VIEW OF POPE FROM BEHIND) Happy Easter! (VIEW OF CROWDS) Happy Easter! "
Many of the faithful came to see a pope they hope can give a new start to a Church that has been marred by scandals involving sexual abuse of chil
