Pope: Coronavirus pandemic changed lives

For Pope Francis, the Coronavirus pandemic has caused lives to change and a moment of opportunities.

“In these weeks, the lives of millions of people have suddenly changed. For many, remaining at home has been an opportunity to reflect, to withdraw from the frenetic pace of life, stay with loved ones and enjoy their company,” Pope Francis said in his Urbi et Orbi Easter Message last April 12 from the Vatican.

While there is goodness that happened brought by the pandemic, there are also instances that this has cause problem for many people, and he is calling those in power to help those in need.

“For many, though, this is also a time of worry about an uncertain future, about jobs that are at risk and about other consequences of the current crisis. I encourage political leaders to work actively for the common good, to provide the means and resources needed to enable everyone to lead a dignified life and, when circumstances allow, to assist them in resuming their normal daily activities,” the pope said.

The Holy Father also took the opportunity to look into the welfare of those who are working in the frontlines, the doctors, nurses and other professionals.

“May Jesus, our Passover, grant strength and hope to doctors and nurses, who everywhere offer a witness of care and love for our neighbours, to the point of exhaustion and not infrequently at the expense of their own health. Our gratitude and affection go to them, to all who work diligently to guarantee the essential services necessary for civil society, and to the law enforcement and military personnel who in many countries have helped ease people’s difficulties and sufferings,” he said.

He also prayed for those who have been directly affected by the disease, those who died and whose families are grieving over the loss of their loved ones saying “May the Lord of life welcome the departed into his kingdom and grant comfort and hope to those still suffering, especially the elderly and those who are alone.”

The pope also mentioned that the pandemic has brought cancellation in public masses and the receiving of the sacraments in person.

“This disease has not only deprived us of human closeness, but also of the possibility of receiving in person the consolation that flows from the sacraments, particularly the Eucharist and Reconciliation,” he said.

Despite all the problems faced by humanity, the Pope is optimistic in the saving power of the Lord when he greeted everyone a Happy Easter.

“May Christ, who has already defeated death and opened for us the way to eternal salvation, dispel the darkness of our suffering humanity and lead us into the light of his glorious day, a day that knows no end,” he said. (JFF/DCHerald)