Pope Francis has urged countries in his Easter message to quicken distribution of COVID-19 vaccines, particularly to the world’s poor, and called armed conflict and military spending during a pandemic “scandalous”.
The coronavirus pandemic has meant this has been the second year in a row that Easter papal services have been attended by small gatherings at a secondary altar of St Peter’s Basilica, instead of by crowds in the church or the square outside.
After saying Mass on Sunday, Francis read his Urbi et Orbi (to the city and the world) message, in which he traditionally reviews world problems and appeals for peace.
The Tablet April 4, 2021
Pope Francis walks near flowers prior to delivering his Easter message and blessing “urbi et orbi” (to the city and the world) after celebrating Easter Mass in St. Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican April 4, 2021. (Photo: CNS/Vatican Media)
By Elise Ann Allen
ROME (Crux) – Pope Francis on Easter offered consolation to all those still struggling as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, and he urged speeding up production of COVID-19 vaccines amid global delays and ensuring they reach the poorest countries.
In his Easter
Urbi et Orbi address, the pontiff said the resurrected Christ is a sign of “hope for all who continue to suffer from the pandemic, both the sick and those who have lost a loved one.”
Francis urged countries to quicken the distribution of Covid-19 vaccines, particularly to the world’s poor
Reuters
April 04, 2021
VATICAN CITY:
Pope Francis urged countries in his Easter message on Sunday to quicken distribution of Covid-19 vaccines, particularly to the world’s poor, and called armed conflict and military spending during a pandemic “scandalous”.
Coronavirus has meant this has been the second year in a row that Easter papal services have been attended by small gatherings at a secondary altar of St. Peter’s Basilica, instead of by crowds in the church or in the square outside.
After saying Mass, Francis read his “Urbi et Orbi” (to the city and the world) message, in which he traditionally reviews world problems and appeals for peace.