Pope Francis held the special Urbi et Orbi on Friday, March 27 from the steps of St. Peter’s Basilica.
Usually reserved only for Christmas and Easter, this extraordinary blessing was held to pray for an end to the COVID-19 pandemic, which has more than half the world’s population confined to their homes to prevent its spread.
As a steady rain fell in a deserted St. Peter’s Square, Pope Francis spoke to, prayed for and blessed the world.
Prayer and Urbi et Orbi blessing (Vatican)
Read: (English | Español) | View: Watch video
Plenary indulgence for the Faithful during the COVID-19 pandemic
The gift of special Indulgences is granted to ALL the faithful during this time. This includes anyone suffering because of COVID-19, including those who are sick with the disease, commonly known as coronavirus, as well as to health care workers, family members and all those who in any capacity, including through prayer, care for them. Certain conditions should be met. Click “Decree details” below for more information:
Decree details (Vatican) | Learn more about plenary indulgences (EWTN)
