Franciscus emphasized that countries must show solidarity in tackling the corona virus. He called for the relief of international sanctions, the cancellation of debt from poor countries and for armistices in conflict areas.
He also warned that if no solutions are found to help EU countries repair the damage caused by the corona measures, the European Union will fall apart.
Easter vigil
Yesterday the Pope held in an almost empty Saint Peter’s Easter vigil. There he compared the Bible story of Jesus’ death to the corona crisis. “Then there was also an unexpected tragedy that suddenly happened,” he said.
Francis asked believers to plant a seed of hope, “with a small act of care, love or prayer.”
Special urbi et orbi
The urbi et orbi is normally only spoken at Christmas, Easter and after the election of a new pope. At the end of March, an exception was made due to the corona crisis.
On March 27, before an empty St. Peter’s Square, the Pope blessed the city of Rome and the world:
–
