A simple prayer we can use and share over the coming weeks.
We take a moment to remember all those who are sick and those who care for them, our frontline healthcare workers, and all who protect and serve our communities at this time.
Traditionally and historically at times of struggle and crisis in the world, Catholics have turned to Our Lady in prayer.
The Pope offered a prayer to the Virgin Mary on Wednesday afternoon, in a video message to mark the Diocese of Rome’s day of prayer and fasting for the coronavirus emergency.
Matteo Bruni, the Director of the Holy See Press Office, said Tuesday that the Pope wanted to entrust the city of Rome, all of Italy, and “the entire world to the protection of the Mother of God, as a sign of salvation and hope” during the ongoing coronavirus emergency.
The choice to celebrate Wednesday’s Mass at the Divine Love Sanctuary holds significant historical value. Pope Pius XII went to pray there before the statue of Our Lady in June 1944. He pleaded for the salvation of the city of Rome as Nazi troops withdrew from Italy during World War II.
Now, over 75 years later, Pope Francis has asked the Virgin Mary to watch over the world in this current moment of crisis.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=12&v=D2wxD3YvfeQ&feature=emb_title
Below is the beautiful prayer composed by Pope Francis that we can all use over these coming weeks. 
To download and share:
Prayer of Protection – Pope Francis
