Coronavirus

LIMA, Peru - Priests and volunteers have distributed more than 15,000 food baskets to Peruvians unable to work during the nation’s coronavirus pandemic lockdown. They say they aim to distribute 15,000 more.

Bishops across the United States have suspended public liturgies and closed church buildings in response to state-issued public safety policies, and Catholic leaders have warned of an immediate revenue shortfall.

Parish priests in Jerusalem are invited to provide the faithful with blessed olive branches and holy water. Families are urged to make time to pray together at home and to participate in the liturgies with leaflets prepared by the diocese that contain the Mass readings.

In an expression of solidarity with Italy and the world, the Vatican is joining an initiative promoted by Italian mayors to fly flags at half-mast in memory of victims of COVID-19.

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has praised the commitment shown by health workers and reassured Filipinos of his government’s determination to help them and defeat COVID-19.