Rome, Italy: The Vicar General of the Diocese of Rome has suspended the dedication of the Holy Communion in the diocese of Rome in the wake of the coronavirus epidemic. Rome was forced to cancel the Holy Mass following the Italian government’s proposal to cancel religious ceremonies. In a statement released Sunday, Cardinal Angelo de Donatis said that the Roman Church understands its responsibility to the public and that the rituals have been suspended until April 3, when it appears that stringent measures are needed to protect the epidemic. This statement of the Archdiocese of Rome is part of an ongoing program by the Italian Bishops Council following the Corona Fear.
In addition, on March 11 (Wednesday), the church has urged believers in Rome to pray, fast, and observe a special Mass of worship on TV that day. They are also asked to make a generous donation in addition to fasting. The diocese plans to use the proceeds of the charity to support those who serve in the health sector. The clergy, who live in the Vatican, are able to offer the Holy Mass privately and there is no barrier to making personal prayers before the altar.
The Italian Bishops’ Council has also stated that the Holy Mass has been canceled following the government’s directive to protect public health under special circumstances. Vatican Press Office Director Matteo Bruni has said that the Pope’s official residence, Casa Santa Maria from today, will be broadcast live on Vatican News and YouTube daily. Earlier in the day, one person in the Vatican City had been diagnosed with the disease. The Vatican Press Office has revealed that five of his associates are under strict surveillance. Pope Francis has prayed for the coroner’s prayer during yesterday’s trilateral prayer.
