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Pope Francis held Palm Sunday Mass behind closed doors in a near-empty Vatican church — instead live-streaming the service as he called for a heroic response to the coronavirus pandemic.

The 83-year-old pontiff — who has twice tested negative for the deadly contagion — kicked off the Holy Week events that lead to Easter in an eerily empty St. Peter’s Basilica.

Just a handful of invited aides and laypeople were present — staggered apart to help with social distancing — compared to the tens of thousands who normally flock to the important Catholic Mass.

Over a video link, Francis urged worshipers to feel the call to “put your lives on the line” and help others during the crisis.

“Look at the real heroes who come to light in these days: they are not famous, rich and successful people; rather they are those who are giving themselves in order to serve others,” he said.

“Do not be afraid to devote your life to God and to others, it pays!”

With Post wires