A special Urbi et Orbi blessing
Friday, March 27, 2020

The Pope, on Friday, 27 March, presided over a moment of prayer on the sagrato of St Peter’s Basilica, the platform at the top of the steps immediately in front of the façade of the Church. “I invite everyone to participate spiritually through the means of communication”.

Church grants special indulgence to coronavirus patients and caregivers

The gift of special Indulgences is granted to the faithful suffering from COVID-19 disease, commonly known as Coronavirus, as well as to health care workers, family members and all those who in any capacity, including through prayer, care for them. ( READ the decree)

The prayer service and special “Urbi et Orbi” blessing in response to the coronavirus pandemic were broadcast live on CatholicTV, both on television and online ( www.catholictv.org/watch-live), on Friday, March 27, 2020 at 1:00 PM (EST). In addition, it was shown on tape delay by EWTN-TV, both on television and online ( www.ewtn.com/tv/watch-live), 

The square was empty, but he invited people across the world “to participate spiritually” in this prayer which, he explained, would include readings from the Scripture and adoration of Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament.

“We want to respond to the pandemic of the virus with the universality of prayer, compassion, tenderness. Let us stay united,” Pope Francis said.

From Pope Francis' Homily - 
"Lord, may you bless the world, give health to our bodies and comfort our hearts. You ask us not to be afraid. Yet our faith is weak and we are fearful. But you, Lord, will not leave us at the mercy of the storm. Tell us again: “Do not be afraid” (Mt 28:5). And we, together with Peter, “cast all our anxieties onto you, for you care about us” (cf. 1 Pet 5:7).

Visit the Vatican News website to see pictures and read the Pope's message  Click here.