The Pope has spoken out on the pandemic that has shocked the world, praying for God to stop the virus spreading.
In an interview with the Italian daily newspaper, “La Repubblica”, Pope Francis told the publication he is praying for an end to the coronavirus pandemic. He also asked everyone to be close to those who have lost loved ones.
Speaking with Italian journalist, Paolo Rodari, the Pope declared, “I asked the Lord to stop the epidemic: ‘Lord, stop it with your hand’. That is what I prayed for.”
Pope Francis visited the Roman churches of Saints Mary Major and Marcello on the Via del Corso last Sunday.
“We need to rediscover the concreteness of small things, the small acts of kindness shown to those who are close to us, family, friends,” he stated.
“We need to realize that our treasure lies in small things. There are tiny gestures that sometimes get lost in the routine of everyday life, gestures of tenderness, affection, compassion, that are nevertheless decisive, important.
(Sharing) “a hot plate of food, a caress, a hug, a phone call… These are familiar, attentive gestures regarding everyday details that make life meaningful, and create communion and communication amongst us.
“We are all children of God, and He watches over us. Even those who have not yet met God, those who do not have the gift of faith, can find their way through the good things that they believe in. They can find strength in their love for their children, their family, their brothers and sisters.
Someone might say: ‘I cannot pray because I do not believe’. But at the same time, we can believe in the love of the people we have around us, and there we can find hope.”
The article was published in Wednesday’s edition of the newspaper.
Image courtesy Wikipedia Commons
Shane Idleman
Danielle Jarvis
