ROME – Pope Francis is urging the faithful to use the coronavirus pandemic's “time of trial” to prepare for a future where inequalities are abolished and the poorest are no longer left behind. “This is not some ideology,” Francis said. “It is Christianity.” Francis traveled a few blocks outside the Vatican walls on Sunday to celebrate Mass at a nearby church to mark a special feast day dedicated to mercy.
Only a few priests were in the pews given Italy’s strict virus lockdown. While people infected with the coronavirus often experience mild or moderate symptoms, possible complications like pneumonia can put their lives at risk.