Vatican City, Apr 1, 2020 / 11:01 am
The Vatican has asked priests around the world to recite a new prayer during this year's Good Friday liturgy, and urged them to offer Masses for the end of the coronavirus pandemic.
The Congregation for Divine Worship issued the new intention for the Solemn Intercessions during the Celebration of the Lord's Passion in light of the coronavirus pandemic.
The Solemn Intercessions, which are derived from ancient prayers, are recited on Good Friday for various categories of people. They include the pope; bishops, priests and deacons; the faithful; catechumens, other Christians; the Jewish people; those who do not believe in Christ; those who do not believe in God; those in public office; and those in special need.
The new prayer is titled "For the afflicted in time of pandemic". It begins with the priest saying: "Let us pray also for all those who suffer the consequences of the current pandemic, that God the Father may grant health to the sick, strength to those who care for them, comfort to families and salvation to all the victims who have died."