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Fifty-third year, number 20 (2.647) Friday, 15 May 2020

Message for the 106th World Day of Migrants and Refugees Like Jesus Christ, forced to flee

For the 's message, see page 6/7

General Fr a n c i s ’prayer on the Day announced by the Higher Committee on Human Fraternity Audience Believers united to invoke the end of the pandemic

As he assured several times in re- say: ‘all brothers’. And for this reas- particularly those in Asia, and of in- cent days, also joined on, men and women of every reli- ternational institutions, such as the on Thursday, 14 May, in the Day of gious confession, today, we join in UN Secretary-General. Prayer announced by the Higher prayer and penitence”, participating The Pope also dedicated his Committee for Human Fraternity to in the initiative of the Committee homily to the “brotherhood that ask for mercy in this tragic established in order to achieve the unites in this moment of suffering”, moment of the pandemic. objectives of the The Document on in which “so many people are dy- Introducing the daily celebration Human Fraternity for World Peace ing”: isolated, “without being able of morning in the Casa Santa and Living Together, signed in Abu to do anything”. To the point, he Marta chapel, the Pontiff offered Dhabi on 4 February 2019 by the added, “so often the thought may the Mass to invoke “the grace of Bishop of and the Grand come: ‘It doesn’t affect me; thank the cure” from the disease caused Imam of al-Azhar. God I have been saved’”. Instead, by infection with the corona virus. The Committee is composed of Francis clarified, we need to think A cohesiveness reinforced by the members of the principal monothe- “of the others”, to consider “the conviction that “we are all brothers istic religions — Muslims, Christians consequences” that Covid-19 has and sisters”. Not by chance, he ad- and Jews — but has also appealed PAGE 3 ded, “ used to to leaders of other faith traditions, CONTINUED ON PA G E 11 page 2 L’OSSERVATORE ROMANO Friday, 15 May 2020, number 20

of Melzi and Auxili- ary of Alexandria-Cornwall.

The Holy Father accepted the resig- VAT I C A N nation of Bishop R. Binzer from his office as Auxiliary Bishop He was ordained a bishop on 19 Au- of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, BULLETIN gust 2017, subsequent to his appoint- USA (7 May). ment as titular Bishop of Tusuro and Auxiliary of Curitiba. The Holy Father accepted the resig- AUDIENCES as Bishop of Sault Sainte Marie, nation of Cardinal Angelo Bagnasco Canada (6 May). The Holy Father appointed Bishop from his office as Metropolitan of Genoa, (8 May). Saturday, 9 May Archbishop Damphousse, 57, was Luiz Antonio Lopes Ricci as Bishop Cardinal Marc Ouellet, PSS, Prefect born in Saint-Joseph, Canada. He of Nova Friburgo, Brazil. Until now The Holy Father appointed Fr of the was ordained a priest on 28 June he has served as titular Bishop of Marco Tasca, OFM Conv. as Metro- 1991. He was ordained a bishop on 2 Tindari and Auxiliary Bishop of the politan Archbishop of Genoa. Until H.E. Ms Amal Mussa Hussain Al- September 2012, subsequent to his now he has served as Minister Gen- Rubaye, Ambassador of Iraq, on her Archdiocese of Niterói, Brazil (6 appointment as Bishop of Alexan- eral of the Order of Minor farewell visit May). dria-Cornwall, Canada. On 12 Conventual (8 May). H.E. Mr Antonius Agus Sriyono, November 2015 he was appointed Bishop Lopes Ricci, 53, was born Archbishop-elect Tasca, 62, was Ambassador of Indonesia, on his Bishop of Sault Sainte Marie. in Bauru, Brazil. He was ordained a farewell visit priest on 10 July 1997. He was or- born in Sant'Angelo di Piove di dained a bishop on 16 July 2017, Sacco, Italy. He holds a degree in theology and a licence in psychology CHANGES IN EP I S C O PAT E subsequent to his appointment as NEW ARCHDIO CESE titular Bishop of Tindari and Auxili- and pastoral theology. He was or- dained a priest on 28 November The Holy Father accepted the resig- ary of Niterói. The Holy Father approved the mer- 1981. nation of Bishop Antônio Wagner ging of the Archdiocese of Ottawa da Silva, SCI, from his office as Bish- The Holy Father appointed Bishop and the Diocese of Alexandria- The Holy Father accepted the resig- op of Guarapuava, Brazil (6 May). Guy Desrochers, CSSR, as Bishop of Cornwall, Canada, into a single cir- nation of Bishop Marcelo Raúl Pembroke, Canada. Until now he cumscription named Ottawa-Corn- The Holy Father appointed Bishop Martorell from his office as Bishop has served as titular Bishop of Melzi wall. At the same time he appointed Amilton Manoel da Silva, C P, as of Puerto Iguazú, Argentina (8 and Auxiliary of Alexandria-Corn- Archbishop Terrence Prendergast, S J, Bishop of Guarapuava. Until now Mary). as the first archbishop of the new he has served as Auxiliary Bishop of wall, Canada (6 May). The Holy Father appointed Bishop circumscription (6 May). the Archdiocese of Curitiba and tit- Bishop Desrochers, 63, was born ular of Tusuro (6 May). Nicolás Baisi as Bishop of Puerto In addition the Holy Father appoin- in Hull, Canada. He was ordained a Iguazú. Until now he has served as ted Bishop Marcel Damphousse as Bishop da Silva, 57, was born in priest on 7 January 1989. He was or- titular Bishop of Tepelta and Auxili- Coadjutor Archbishop of Ottawa- Osvaldo Cruz, Brazil. He was or- dained a bishop on 19 March 2019, ary of the Archdiocese of La Plata, Cornwall. Until now he has served dained a priest on 17 December 2000. subsequent to his appointment as Argentina (8 May). Bishop Baisi, 55, was born in Bella Vista, Argentina. He was or- dained a priest on 21 November Cardinal Becciu on the decision to postpone 1993. He was ordained a bishop on 19 June 2010, subsequent to his ap- pointment as titular Bishop of Te- are a celebration of people pelta and Auxiliary of La Plata.

“There was suffering”, especially among “the ecclesial der to rediscover the figure of the Blessed or martyr. In The Holy Father accepted the resig- a situation of isolation and physical distancing (diffi- communities who were preparing for the great celebra- nation of Bishop Alvaro Corrada del tion of people. It is difficult to think of an ‘adapta- culty in holding meetings, catecheses...) this is ex- Río, S J, from his office as Bishop of tremely arduous. From here arose the decision to post- tion’ simply in streaming”, because it would be “a Mayagüez, Puerto Rico (9 May). cold and artificial ‘withdrawal’”. Cardinal Angelo Bec- pone, requested by the bishops and shared by the ciu, Prefect of the Congregation for the Causes of ”. The Holy Father appointed Fr Án- , shared these comments on the Congregation’s And if “for now five Beatifications have been post- gel Luis Río Matos as Bishop of decision to postpone, to dates yet to be determined, p oned”,Cardinal Becciu indicated, “it does not ex- Mayagüez. Until now he has served the rites of planned for the months of clude the possibility that there may also be some oth- as judicial vicar and priest of May and June. ers to push back at another date. For this reason”, he San Sebastián Mártir (9 May). In an interview with on Thursday, 7 concluded, it is necessary to “follow the evolution of May, the Cardinal explained that “the process of Can- the pandemic and of the dispositions related to it”. CONTINUED ON PA G E 5 onization and Beatification begins precisely with the people, from the popular acclamation that witnesses to the person’s ‘reputation for holiness’, or rather, the common opinion of the people according to which his or her life had been rich in Christian virtues, in Five rites to the Honours of the Altar postponed apostolic fruitfulness, in edifying death. This is why the celebration of Beatification”, the Cardinal commen- “Due to the prolonged situation of pandemic and of the necessary prudential measures to be ted, “is in itself a manifestation and a participation of taken with regard to religious ceremonies that foresee the presence of numerous faithful, at the the , and cannot be reduced to a virtual request of the interested bishops themselves, the Beatifications that had been scheduled for the c e re m o n y ”. coming months have been postponed to a date to be determined”. The Congregation for the Moreover, the Prefect clarified, “the diocesan com- Causes of Saints made this announcement through a notice posted on the website of the Vatic- munities themselves, seeing the situation and the pro- an www.causesanti.va. longed conditions that preclude the gathering of Five rites have been postponed for the moment, regarding the elevation to the Honours of people, asked to postpone the celebrations, although the Altar of the Servants of God: Lucia of the Immaculate, in the world Maria Ripamonti, ini- with great displeasure. When a Beatification is celeb- tially scheduled for Saturday, 9 May; Maria Luigia of the Blessed Sacrament, in the world Maria rated in a local Church, there is great popular particip- Velotti, programmed for the following Saturday, 16 May; Cayetano Giménez Martín and 15 com- ation, thousands and thousands of people, with the panion martyrs in Spain, Saturday, 23 May; Polish Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński, 7 June, Sunday need for careful preparation, above all spiritual, in or- of the Most Holy ; and Sandra Sabattini, planned for the following week, 14 June.

ANDREA MONDA TIPO GRAFIA VAT I C A N A EDITRICE Subscription rates: Italy - Vatican: € 58.00; Europe: € 100.00 - US$ 148.00 £ 80.00; Latin America, Africa, L’OSSERVATORE ROMANO L’OS S E R VAT O R E ROMANO Asia: € 110.00 - US$ 160.00 - £ 88.00; Oceania, North America: € 162.00 - £ 130.00. Editor-in-Chief Management Office: phone +390669899480; fax +390669885164; e-mail [email protected]. WEEKLY EDITION IN ENGLISH For India: The weekly English Edition of L'Osservatore Romano is published and distributed in Unicuique suum Non praevalebunt Photo Service Giuseppe Fiorentino [email protected] w w w. p h o t o .v a India by Carmel International Publishing House, Cotton Hill, Trivandrum- 695 014, Kerala-India; Assistant Editor phone: +91471327253, fax: +91471328191, 329934; e-mail: [email protected]; [email protected]. For North America: L’Osservatore Romano (USPS 016-419) is published fifty times per year (weekly, except third week in Advertising Agency August and last week in December) by Our Sunday Visitor, L’Osservatore Romano, English Edition, 200 Noll Plaza, Vatican City Il Sole 24 Ore S.p.A. Editorial office Huntington, IN 46750. Periodicals Postage Pending at Huntington, IN, and additional mailing offices, USA – phone: redazione.inglese.or@sp c.va System Comunicazione Pubblicitaria via del Pellegrino, 00120 Vatican City Via Monte Rosa 91, 20149 Milano 800-348-2440 x2171; fax: 866-891-7390 – e-mail: [email protected]. w w w. o s s e r v a t o re ro m a n o .v a telephone +390669899300, fax +390669883675 s e g re t e r i a d i re z i o n e s y s t e m @ i l s o l e 2 4 o re . c o m POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Our Sunday Visitor, 200 Noll Plaza, Huntington, IN 46750 number 20, Friday, 15 May 2020 L’OSSERVATORE ROMANO page 3

GENERAL AU D I E N C E

Pope Francis continued his series of catecheses on prayer at the General Audience on Wednesday morning, 13 May, offering the image of God as a Dad to whom we can ask anything. The following is a translation of the Holy Father’s reflection which he offered in Italian from the library of the Va t i c a n ’s .

The Holy Father continues his series of catecheses on prayer God is like a Dad to whom we can ask anything

Dear Brothers and Sisters, glory in the poverty of Bethle- pointed you that you should go faithful ally: if men and women Good morning, hem, in the contemplation of the and bear fruit and that your fruit cease to love him, he nevertheless Magi, in the in the River should abide; so that whatever continues to love, even if love Today we take our second step in Jordan, in the miracle of the wed- you ask the Father in my name, leads him to Calvary. God is al- the journey of catecheses on pray- ding at Cana. The Gospel of he may give it to you” (Jn 15:15- er that we began last week. ways close to our heart’s door John concludes the great hymn of 16). But this is a blank cheque: and he waits for us to open it to Prayer belongs to everyone: to the Prologue with a concise af- “whatever you ask the Father in him. And sometimes he knocks men and women of every religion, firmation,: “No one has ever seen my name, I will give to you”! on the heart, but he is not intrus- and probably also to those who God; the only Son, who is in the God is a friend, an ally, a ive: he waits. God’s patience with profess none. Prayer arises in our bosom of the Father, he has made spouse. In prayer one can estab- us is the patience of a father, of innermost self, in that interior him known” (1:18). It was Jesus lish an intimate relationship with one who loves us dearly. I would place that spiritual authors call who revealed God to us. him, so much so that in the “O ur say it is the combined patience of “heart” (cf. Catechism of the Cath- The prayer of a Christian Fa t h e r ” Jesus taught us to address a father and a mother. Always olic Church, 2562-2563). Therefore, enters into a relationship with the to him a series of questions. We close to our heart, and when he it is not something peripheral God of the most tender face, who can ask God everything, knocks he does so with tender- that prays within us, it is not does not wish to instill any fear everything; explain everything, re- ness and with much love. some secondary and marginal in men and women. This is the count everything. It does not ability that we have, but rather it Let us all try to pray this way, first characteristic of Christian matter if we feel flawed in our re- is our most intimate mystery. It is by entering the mystery of the prayer. While men and women lationship with God: we are not this mystery that prays. Feelings Covenant. To place ourselves had always been accustomed to good friends, we are not grateful pray, but one cannot say that through prayer into the merciful drawing near to God somewhat children, we are not faithful prayer is only feeling. Intelligence arms of God, to feel enveloped intimidated, somewhat fearful of spouses. He continues to love us. prays, but praying is not simply by that mystery of happiness this fascinating and tremendous It is what Jesus shows definitively an intellectual act. The body which is Trinitarian life, to feel mystery, while they had been ac- at the Last Supper when he says: prays, but one can speak with like guests who were not worthy customed to worshiping him with “This cup which is poured out God even having the most serious of so much honour. And to re- a servile attitude, similar to that for you is the new covenant in disability. Thus the entire man peat to God in the wonder of of a vassal who does not wish to my blood” (Lk 22:20). prays if he prays with his “heart”. prayer: how can you know only disrespect his lord, Christians in- With that gesture in the Upper love? He does not know hatred. Prayer is an impulse; it is an stead address him by daring to Room, Jesus foreshadows the invocation that goes beyond He is hated but he does not call him intimately with the mystery of the Cross. God is a know hatred. He knows only ourselves: something that is born name, “Fa t h e r ”. Indeed, in the intimacy of our person and love. This is the God to whom Jesus uses the other we pray. This is the incandescent extends, because it senses the word: “D ad”. nostalgia of an encounter. That core of all Christian prayer. The Christianity has nostalgia which is more than a God of love, our Father who banned all “feudal” re - need, more than a necessity: it is waits for us and accompanies us. lationships from the a path. Prayer is the voice of an bond with God. In the “I” that fumbles, that proceeds heritage of our faith SPECIAL GREETINGS unsteadily in search of a “Yo u ”. there are no expressions The encounter between the “I” such as “subjection”, I greet the English-speaking and the “Yo u ” cannot occur via “slavery” or “servitude”; faithful joining us through the calculators: it is a human en- but rather, words like media. In this Easter season, I in- counter and we often proceed un- “covenant”, “friend- voke upon you and your families steadily in order to find the ship”, “p ro m i s e ”, “com- the joy and strength that come “Yo u ” that my “I” is seeking. munion”, “closeness”. from the Risen Christ. May God Instead, the prayer of a Christi- In his long farewell dis- bless you! an arises from a revelation: the course to his disciples, I offer a special greeting to “Yo u ” did not remain shrouded Jesus says this: “No young people, the e l d e rl y, the sick in mystery, but rather entered in- longer do I call you and newlyweds. Constantly turn to to a relationship with us. Chris- servants, for the servant the help of Our Lady; in her we tianity is the religion that con- does not know what his find an attentive and tender tinually celebrates God’s “mani- master is doing; but I mother, a certain refuge in ad- festation”, that is, his epiphany. have called you friends, versity. I extend my blessing to The first feasts of the liturgical for all that I have heard all of you. year are the celebration of this from my Father I have God who does not remain hid- made known to you. den, but rather offers his friend- You did not choose me, ship to mankind. God reveals his but I chose you and ap- page 4 L’OSSERVATORE ROMANO Friday, 15 May 2020, number 20 Cardinal Renato Corti dies Former Bishop of Novara and Vice President of the Italian

Cardinal Renato Corti, Bishop emerit- us of Novara, Italy, and former Presid- ent of the Italian Episcopal Conference The Pope expresses his sorrow at the death of Cardinal Corti (CEI), died on Tuesday, 12 May, at Upon learning the news of the passing of dear Cardinal Renato the age of 84. Upon learning of the Corti, I would like to express my closeness to you and to the entire Italian Cardinal’s death, Pope Francis diocesan community, as well as to the family of the late Cardinal expressed his condolences in a telegram and to those who knew and esteemed him, thinking with affection addressed to Bishop Franco Giulio and admiration of this who served the Lord Jesus and the Brambilla, who succeeded the late Car- Church with exemplary dedication and sensitivity of spirit. dinal as Bishop of Novara. The follow- ing is a translation of a brief biography I think gratefully of the intense spiritual and pastoral ministry of the late Cardinal, accompanied by which he gave unsparingly, even exhausting himself for the Gospel, the Holy Father’s telegram, which was first in his native Archdiocese of Milan, in particular in the forma- written in Italian. tion of seminarians and priests, and as Vicar General, and then for long years as the meek and wise pastor of this Church of Novara. Cardinal Renato Corti, Bishop I think additionally of his genuine love for mission and of the emeritus of Novara, Italy, was born ministry of preaching that he exercised with great generosity, in Galbiate in the Italian province wholly enlivened by the impassioned wish to communicate the of Como, Italy, on 1 March 1936. Gospel of Christ. He entered the Minor Seminary of I raise my prayer to the Lord that, through the intercession of Milan in 1947 at the age of 11, and the Blessed Mary, he welcome this faithful servant and dis- after completing formation was or- tinguished pastor into the heavenly Jerusalem, and I whole- dained a priest on 28 June 1959 by heartedly impart to those who mourn his earthly parting the Archbishop Giovanni Battista Apostolic Blessing, with a special thought for those who lovingly Montini, the future Pope Paul VI. dinal John Henry Newman, a figure assisted and accompanied him in recent times. He began his ministry as parish of reference for his profound spiritu- vicar at the oratory of Caronno ality, along with Saints and FRANCISCUS P P. Pertusella until 1967, when he be- Augustine, the French mystic came a teacher at the Collegio Ro- Madaleine Delbrêl, and Blessed tondi in Gorla Minore, in the Antonio Rosmini, whose Cause for province of Varese. Beatification Bishop Corti later pro- ive to the most marginalized people, In the decade that preceded his In 1969 he became spiritual father moted as Bishop of Novara, a post celebrating Christmas and Easter creation as Cardinal, he offered spir- at the Theological Seminary of Mil- to which he was appointed on 19 with prison inmates. Meanwhile his itual exercises for two : for an, and in 1978 he became rector of reputation grew within the Italian Saint Pope John Paul II in 2004, the the theological biennium and of the December 1990, and assumed on 3 March 1991. Episcopal Conference, where, after Year of the , and for Pope preparatory year. Archbishop Mar- serving five years as head of the Fr a n c i s ’ Via Crucis on Good Friday tini appointed him Vicar General of He attentively followed the fidei Commissions for Cooperation in 2013. Having reached the age lim- the Archdiocese of Milan in 1980, donum priests from Novara who among Churches, and for the it, he resigned his leadership of the and the following year, on 30 April served in Africa and Latin America, Clergy, Permanent and Diocese of Novara on 24 November 1981, Pope John Paul II app ointed and travelled to become acquainted him Auxiliary Bishop of the said with those churches and to bring , he was called to 2011. Five years later, Pope Francis Archdiocese, assigning to him the help and encouragement. He was a the position of Vice President, created him Cardinal in the Consist- Titular See of Zallata. He was or- wise master of spiritual life, attent- which he held for 10 years. He also ory of 19 November 2016, and on 14 dained a bishop on 6 June 1981 by ive to the formation of young served as a Member of the Con- May 2017 he took possession of the Archbishop Martini. The new prel- people, seminarians and the clergy gregation for the Evangelization of Title of San Giovanni a Porta Lat- ate selected as his episcopal motto and close to consecrated men and Peoples, and as Vice President of ina, a Church run by the fathers of “Cor ad cor loquitur”, “Heart speaks women. He supported religious pro- the regional Episcopal Conference the Institute of Charity founded by to heart”, the same as that of Car- fessions and was particularly sensit- of Piemonte. Blessed Antonio Rossini.

The challenge of hope between fear for the future and nostalgia for the past

ANDREA MONDA Perhaps between the urge to go forward, to- ahead, but it speaks in the present: now”. Simple, wards “after” and the corresponding one towards clear, eloquent words that push us to action, to What will happen after? That is, after the pan- “b efore”, a conflict that risks sending our centre be “present in the present”, pushing away the fear demic that in a few countries these days shows a of gravity into crisis, there is another urge, anoth- of tomorrow and the temptation to lock ourselves slightly falling curve. How will the world be at er voice to listen to. On Sunday, 3 May, at the re- in the past. Words that apply to every individual the end of the health emergency? Many are ask- citation of the Regina Caeli, Pope Francis re- person but also to people joined in community, ing themselves these questions, trying to foresee minded us of the conflict that occurs not outside united in institutions. They also apply to a family, the future (even the pages of this newspaper host but within every person. In his words we perceive a neighbourhood, a city, a nation. Let us consider a “lab oratory”entitled “after the pandemic”), and B e rg o g l i o ’s Ignatian origin which fully shares the Europe, which must overcome paralysis and past the answers often resonate unsettlingly on all affirmation contained in Dostoevsky’s The Brothers divisions and focus its efforts on the challenge of levels: economic, financial, political, social, mor- K a ra m a z o v : “the devil is struggling with God, and the present, acquiring the awareness that can truly al. Everything seems more uncertain, more the battlefield is the human heart”. For Francis, do good, do it now. Here the virtue of hope man himself is the theatre of a battle in which threatening and dramatic. The almost automatic emerges, the essence of all political responsibility. two voices clash, that of the evil spirit which con- reaction is to seek refuge in the past, in remem- For a Christian the responsibility is lofty but trasts in every way with that of God. Between bering an earlier time in which everything was these two voices is the challenge of man called to there is a consolation, in the literal sense, because more familiar, taken for granted (seemingly), discern, to grasp the substantial differences a Christian is never alone. He is strengthened by stable and reliable. We feel the sting of nostalgia between the two different “languages”. In particu- the Word he hears in his conscience. Indeed a that pushes us to want to return to the past lar the Holy Father recalled that “the voice of the Christian manages, in the chaos of the time in world, as if by closing our eyes we could reset enemy distracts us from the present and wants us which we are living, to listen to God’s voice, a the hands of time. Divided, torn between these to focus on fears of the future or sadness about voice “that has a horizon, whereas the voice of two urges, the people of countries stricken by the the past — the enemy does not want the the evil one leads you to a wall, it backs you into pandemic seem mostly paralyzed, stammering, present.... On the other hand, the voice of God a corner…”, a voice that “never promises joy at a lost in the face of the new awareness of their own speaks in the present: ‘Now you can do good, low price: it invites us to go beyond our ego in frailty and of the precariousness of that socio- now you can exercise the creativity of love, now order to find the true, good peace.…” A voice economic system that they thought was certain, you can forego the regrets and remorse that hold that “always encourages us, consoles us: it always winning and convincing. your heart captive’. It inspires us, it leads us nourishes hope”. number 20, Friday, 15 May 2020 L’OSSERVATORE ROMANO page 5

Message of His Holiness Pope Francis for International Nurses Day Good Samaritans who protect and serve life An appeal to invest more in healthcare

In his message on the occasion of International Nurses Day celebrated on Tuesday, 12 May, Pope Francis urged world leaders “to invest in health care as the primary common good” so as to ensure adequate care to everyone, with respect for the dignity of each person. This year is also the World Health Organization’s International Year of the Nurse and the Midwife. The following is the English text of the Holy Father’s message.

Dear brothers and sisters, and suffering of others. They are guardians and preservers of life, Today we celebrate International Nurses Day, in the context of the who, even as they administer ne- International Year of Nurses and cessary treatments, offer courage, Midwives officially declared by hope and trust (cf. The New the World Health Organization. Charter for Health Care Workers, At this same time, we observe the nn. 1-8). bicentennial of the birth of Dear nurses, moral responsibil- Florence Nightingale, the pioneer ity is the hallmark of your profes- of modern nursing. sional service, which cannot be At this critical moment, marked reduced to scientific-technical by the global health emergency knowledge alone, but must be caused by the Covid-19 pandem- constantly inspired by your hu- ic, we have rediscovered the fun- man and humanizing relationship damental importance of the role with the sick. “Taking care of wo- being played by nurses and mid- men and men, of children and wives. Every day we witness the elderly, in every phase of their testimony of courage and sacrifice life, from birth to death, you are of healthcare workers, and nurses tasked with continuous listening, its systems and employing greater Dear nurses, dear midwives, in particular, who, with profes- aimed at understanding what the numbers of nurses, so as to en- may this annual celebration high- sionalism, self-sacrifice, and a needs of that patient are, in the sure adequate care to everyone, light the dignity of your work for sense of responsibility and love phase that he or she is experien- with respect for the dignity of the benefit of the health of soci- for neighbour, assist people af- cing. Before the uniqueness of each person. It is important to re- ety as a whole. With the assur- fected by the virus, even to the each situation, indeed, it is never cognize in an effective way the es- ance of my prayers for you, your point of putting their own health enough to follow a protocol, but sential role your profession plays families and those for whom you at risk. Sadly, this can be seen in a constant — and tiresome! — ef- in patient care, local emergency care, I cordially impart to all of the high number of healthcare fort of discernment and attention activity, disease prevention, health you my Apostolic Blessing. workers who have died as a result to the individual person is re- promotion, and assistance in fam- of their faithful service. I pray for q u i re d ”(Address to Members of the ily, community and school set- Rome, from Saint John Lateran, Italian Federation of the tings. 12 May 2020 Boards of Nursing Pro- Nurses, as well as midwives, fessions, 3 March deservedly have the right to be 2018). better and more fully valued and You — and here I involved in processes concerning think too of midwives the health of individuals and — are close to people communities. It has been shown at crucial moments in that investing in them improves their existence — birth overall care and health. Their and death, disease and professionalism should thus be VAT I C A N BULLETIN healing — helping enhanced by providing suitable CONTINUED FROM PA G E 2 them deal with trau- scientific, human, psychological matic situations. and spiritual tools for their train- Bishop-elect Río Matos, 63, was Sometimes you find ing, by improving their working yourself at their side conditions and by guaranteeing born in Aguada, Puerto Rico. He as they are dying, giv- their rights, so that they can carry holds a a degree in philosophy and ing comfort and relief out their service in full dignity. in theology; a doctorate in canon in their last moments. law. He was ordained a priest on 11 In this regard, associations of January 1985. Because of your ded- healthcare workers play an im- ication, you are portant role. In addition to offer- The Holy Father appointed as Co- among the “saints ing comprehensive training, they next door” (Homily on adjutor Bishop of Peoria, USA, Fr support their individual members, Louis Tylka. Until now he has “Good Samaritan” by Olga Bakhtina (2016) Holy Thursday, 9 April making them feel part of a larger served as parish priest of Saint Julie 2020). You are an im- body, never dismayed and alone Biliart Parish in Tinley Park and age of the Church as a as they face the ethical, economic President of the Presbyteral Council them — the Lord knows each of “field hospital” that continues to and human challenges that their for the Archdiocese of Chicago (11 them by name — and for all the carry out the mission of Jesus profession entails. victims of this epidemic. May the Christ, who drew near to and May). I would like to say a special Risen Lord grant to each of them healed people with all kinds of word to midwives who assist wo- Bishop-elect Tylka, 49, was born the light of heaven and to their sickness and who stooped down men in their pregnancies and in Harvey, USA . He holds: a BA families the consolation of faith. to wash the feet of his disciples. help them give birth to their chil- from Loyola University in Chicago; Nurses have historically played Thank you for your service to hu- dren. Your work is among the a Bachelor in Sacred Theology; and a central role in health care. manity! most noble of professions, for it is a Master of Divinity. He was or- Every day, in their contact with In many countries, the pan- directly dedicated to the service dained a priest on 18 May 1996. the sick, they experience the demic has also brought to light a of life and of motherhood. In the trauma caused by suffering in number of deficiencies in the pro- Bible, the names of two heroic p eople’s lives.They are men and vision of health care. For this midwives, Shiphrah and Puah, NECROLO GY women who have chosen to say reason, I would ask leaders of na- are immortalized in the Book of “yes” to a very special vocation: tions throughout the world to in- Exodus (cf. 1:15-21). Today, too, Bishop Eugenio Ravignani, Bishop that of being good Samaritans vest in health care as the primary the heavenly Father looks to you emeritus of Trieste, Italy, at age 87 who are concerned for the life common good, by strengthening with gratitude. (7 May) number 20, Friday, 15 May 2020 L’OSSERVATORE ROMANO page 6/7

Migrants from the Moria camp disembark in the WORLD DAY OF MIGRANTS AND REFUGEES port of Piraeus near Athens, 4 May (AFP photo)

and for this reason it is necessary that we learn to cooperate, without yielding to the tempta- Like Jesus Christ, forced to flee tion to jealousy, discord and divi- sion. In the present context it should be reiterated: “This is not a time for self-centredness, be- Welcoming, protecting, promoting and cause the challenge we are facing is shared by all, without distin- guishing between persons” (Urbi et Orbi Message, 12 April 2020). integrating internally displaced persons To preserve our common home and make it conform more and more to God’s original plan, we must commit ourselves to ensur- In his Message for the 106th World Day of Migrants and Refugees 2020, Mt 25:31-46). If we can recognize gether, Jesus himself drew near distant from others and often pre- ing international cooperation, which will be observed on 27 September, the Holy Father focuses on the him in those faces, we will be the and went with them, but their vent us from “becoming neigh- global solidarity and local com- pastoral care of internally displaced persons who currently number over 41 ones to thank him for having eyes were kept from recognizing b ours”to them and serving them mitment, leaving no one ex- million worldwide and whose suffering has only been further exacerbated by the been able to meet, love and serve him” (Lk 24:15-16). When we talk with love. Drawing close to oth- cluded. him in them. about migrants and displaced ers often means being willing to Covid-19 pandemic. The following is the English text of the Message. I would like to conclude with a persons, all too often we stop at take risks, as so many doctors Displaced people offer us this prayer suggested by the example opportunity to meet the Lord, statistics. But it is not about stat- and nurses have taught us in re- the COVID-19 pandemic has only istics, it is about real people! If cent months. This readiness to of at the time he “even though our eyes find it was forced to flee to Egypt to exacerbated. In fact, due to its hard to recognize him: his cloth- we encounter them, we will get to draw near and serve goes beyond save the child Jesus. virulence, severity and geograph- ing in tatters, his feet dirty, his know more about them. And a mere sense of duty. Jesus gave ical extent, this crisis has im- face disfigured, his body knowing their stories, we will be us the greatest example of this pacted on many other humanit- wounded, his tongue unable to able to understand them. We will when he washed the feet of his Father, you entrusted to Saint arian emergencies that affect mil- speak our language” (H o m i l y, 15 be able to understand, for ex- disciples: he took off his cloak, Joseph what you held most precious: lions of people, which has releg- February 2019). We are called to ample, that the precariousness knelt down and dirtied his hands the child Jesus and his Mother, in ated to the bottom of national respond to this pastoral challenge that we have come to experience (cf. Jn 13:1-15). order to protect them from the political agendas those urgent in- with the four verbs I indicated in as a result of this pandemic is a In order to be reconciled, we dangers and threats of the wicked. ternational efforts essential to sav- reconciled. In 2020, silence has We need to be involved in order my Message for this Day in 2018: constant in the lives of displaced need to listen. God himself taught ing lives. But “this is not a time reigned for weeks in our streets. to promote. As Jesus was with the Grant that we may experience his welcome, protect, promote and p eople. us this by sending his Son into for forgetfulness. The crisis we A dramatic and troubling silence, Samaritan woman (cf. Jn 4:1-30). protection and help. May he, who integrate. To these words, I It is necessary to be close in or- the world. He wanted to listen to are facing should not make us but one that has given us the op- The Lord approaches her, listens shared in the sufferings of those who would now like to add another der to serve. It may seem obvious, the plea of suffering humanity forget the many other crises that portunity to listen to the plea of to her, speaks to her heart, and flee from the hatred of the powerful, six pairs of verbs that deal with yet often it is the contrary. “But a with human ears: “For God so bring suffering to so many the vulnerable, the displaced and then leads her to the truth and console and protect all our brothers very practical actions and are Samaritan, as he journeyed, came loved the world that he gave his Like Jesus Christ, forced to flee. p eople” (Urbi et Orbi Message, 12 our seriously ill planet. Listening makes her a herald of the Good and sisters driven by war, poverty linked together in a relationship to where the man was; and when only-begotten Son… that the Welcoming, protecting, April 2020). gives us an opportunity to be re- News: “Come, see a man who and necessity to leave their homes of cause and effect. he saw him, he had compassion, world might be saved through promoting and integrating conciled with our neighbour, with told me all that I ever did! Can and their lands to set out as In the light of the tragic events You have to know in order to and went to him and bound up him” (Jn 3:16-17). A love that re- internally all those who have been “dis- this be the Christ?” (v. 29). refugees for safer places. displaced persons. that have marked 2020, I would u n d e rs t a n d . Knowledge is a neces- his wounds, pouring on oil and conciles and saves begins with like this Message, although con- c a rd e d ”, with ourselves and with Sometimes the impulse to serve Help them, through the interces- sary step towards understanding wine; then he set him on his own listening. In today’s world, mes- others prevents us from seeing At the beginning of this year, in cerned with internally displaced others. Jesus himself tells us this beast and brought him to an inn, sages multiply but the practice of God, who never tires of offering sion of Saint Joseph, to find the my Address to the members of persons, to embrace all those who us his mercy. their real riches. If we really want strength to persevere, give them com- in the account of the disciples on and took care of him” (Lk 10:33- listening is being lost. Yet it is to promote those whom we assist, the Diplomatic Corps accredited are experiencing situations of pre- to grow fort in sorrows and courage amid the road to Emmaus: “While they 34). Fears and prejudices — all only through humble and attent- In order , it is necessary we must involve them and make to the Holy See, I pointed to the cariousness, abandonment, mar- were talking and discussing to- too many prejudices — keep us ive listening that we can truly be to share. Sharing was an essential their trials. tragedy of internally displaced them agents in their own redemp- ginalization and rejection as a res- element of the first Christian Grant to those who welcome them people as one of the challenges of ult of COVID-19. tion. The pandemic has reminded community: “Now the company us of how essential co-responsibil- some of the tender love of this just our contemporary world: “Situ- I would like to start with the and wise father, who loved Jesus as ations of conflict and humanitari- of those who believed were of ity is, and that only with the con- image that inspired Pope Pius XII one heart and soul, and no one tribution of everyone — even of a true son and sustained Mary at an emergencies, aggravated by in his Apostolic Constitution Ex- said that any of the things which those groups so often underestim- every step of the way. climate change, are increasing the sul Familia (1 August 1952). Dur- numbers of displaced persons he possessed was his own, but ated — can we face this crisis. We May he, who earned his bread by ing the flight into Egypt, the they had everything in common” the work of his hands, watch over and affecting people already liv- child Jesus experienced with his must find “the courage to create ing in a state of dire poverty. (Ac t s 4:32). God did not want the spaces where everyone can recog- those who have seen everything in parents the tragic fate of the dis- resources of our planet to benefit life taken away and obtain for them Many of the countries experien- placed and refugees, “which is nize that they are called, and to only a few. This was not the the dignity of a and the serenity cing these situations lack ad- marked by fear, uncertainty and allow new forms of hospitality, L o rd ’s will! We have to learn to of a home. equate structures for meeting the unease (cf. Mt 2:13-15, 19-23). Un- fraternity and solidarity” (Me d i t a - needs of the displaced” (9 Janu- fortunately, in our own times, share in order to grow together, tion in ’s Square, 27 We ask this through Jesus Christ, ary 2020). millions of families can identify leaving no one behind. The pan- March 2020). your Son, whom Saint Joseph saved The Migrants and Refugees with this sad reality. Almost every demic has reminded us how we It is necessary to cooperate in or- by fleeing to Egypt, and trusting in Section of the Dicastery for Pro- day the television and papers are all in the same boat. Realiz- der to build. That is what the the intercession of the Virgin Mary, moting Integral Human Develop- carry news of refugees fleeing ing that we have the same con- Apostle Paul tells the community whom he loved as a faithful hus- ment has issued the document from hunger, war and other grave cerns and fears has shown us of Corinth: “I appeal to you, band in accordance with your will. “Pastoral Orientations on Intern- dangers, in search of security and once more that no one can be brethren, by the name of our Am e n . ally Displaced People” ( Va t i c a n a dignified life for themselves and saved alone. To grow truly, we Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you City, 5 May 2020), which aims to for their families” (An g e l u s , 29 must grow together, sharing what agree and that there be no dissen- Rome, Saint John Lateran, 13 inspire and encourage the pastor- December 2013). In each of these we have, like the boy who sions among you, but that you be May 2020, Memorial of the al work of the Church in this spe- people, forced to flee to safety, offered Jesus five barley loaves united in the same mind and the Blessed Virgin Mary of Fatima. cific area. Jesus is present as he was at the and two fish… yet they proved same judgement” (1 Cor 1:10). For these reasons, I have de- time of Herod. In the faces of the enough for five thousand people Building the Kingdom of God is cided to devote this Message to hungry, the thirsty, the naked, the (cf. Jn 6:1-15)! a duty common to all Christians, the drama of internally displaced sick, strangers and prisoners, we persons, an often unseen tragedy are called to see the face of Christ that the global crisis caused by who pleads with us to help (cf.

“Flight into Egypt” by Eugène Girardet (1853-1907) page 8 L’OSSERVATORE ROMANO Friday, 15 May 2020, number 20

A supportive initiative of the Pontifical Villas of Castel Gandolfo with the Office of Papal Charities Fresh milk for the poor from the ‘Pop e’s farm’

Each morning, promptly before 7 seppe Bertello and Bishop Fernan- AM, Rome’s poor receive 200 litres do Vérgez Alzaga, we have addres- of fresh milk — and some containers sed the Almoner to consign to him of yogurt as well — which the farm a daily supply of milk — 200 litres, at the Pontifical Villas of Castel in fact — earmarked in part for Vati- Gandolfo consigns to the Pope’s Al- can Museums, which have been moner Cardinal Konrad Krajewski closed since 9 March”. in the Vatican, directly in front of Of course, the director stated, “the the offices of L’Osservatore Romano farm at the Pontifical Villas will con- on Via del Pellegrino. tinue to guarantee “We are bringing this initiative of milk to the poor peo- solidarity to life in response to the ple aided by the Of- appeals of Pope Francis who, since fice of Papal Chari- the start of the emergency caused by ties even after the the pandemic, has been reminding emergency has en- us that the poor cannot be left on ded”. their own”, explained the director of Each day, he said, the Pontifical Villas. “the farm produces “Giving a part of the milk produ- some 800 litres of ced each day by the fattoria del Papa (’the Pope’s farm’)” — he pointed milk, half of which is out — “is a very concrete sign to re- sold at the ANNONA launch the Pontiff’s invitation not to — the Vatican’s small remain closed, but generously ope- ’sup ermarket’ has re- p ole”, asa veritable “patrimony of ning ourselves up to the needs of mained open — whi- humanity”— have the mission of fiel- the people who are poorest and alo- le the other half, in ding a strategy “that does not point ne, especially in this most difficult the historic dairy of exclusively to profit, but that has as time”. Castel Gandolfo, is its centre respect for creation: man- Besides, the director shared, “we transformed as soon as it is milked ment, for mankind and for animals”. kind, animals, environment”. into yogurt, fresh and aged cheeses, Thus, “an ecosystem that has a vi- began to give the milk right around In fact, with its 54 employees, the which are also sold in the Vatican”. sion of economic and social harmo- 13 March, and that is the day of the director concluded, the farm confir- This gesture of solidarity — the di- ny” in line with the Encyclical Lau- seventh anniversary of Francis’ elec- ms that it is truly possible to create tion: from our part there could not rector noted, also recalling constant dato Si’. an unselfish economy, a supportive be a better ’gift’ for the Pope than attention to the Caritas of Albano A great little model. But “it could to offer continuous service to people and several religious institutions not be otherwise for the fattoria del economy, sized and suitable for in need of brotherly help”. near Castel Gandolfo — is part of Papa”, the director continued. In the mankind, which is more just, frater- And this way, the director explai- the nature of “service” of the Ponti- awareness that the Pontifical Villas — nal, sustainable and with a new pro- ned, “through the president and the fical Villas, which are becoming in- which, through the experience of the tagonism of those who are excluded secretary general of the Governorate creasingly “a model of integrated , are increasingly today. Just as Pope Francis teaches. of Vatican City State, Cardinal Giu- ecology with respect for the environ- assuming the dimension of “cultural (Giampaolo Mattei)

Reaching out to the faithful via telephone Gas leak in chemical UK and Anglican Churches assist those who have no access to the Internet plant in India

Responding to a need in the one another if we’re going to get which offers the faithful a national In a statement signed by Cardinal Os- Catholic community, a statement through this crisis, which we will. telephone service with which to wald Gracias, the CBCI has expressed by the UK Diocese of Middles- We all belong to the human fam- participate in religious services sadness over the styrene gas leak that brough announced that it has ily and to God’s family”. The that have been interrupted due to occurred on 7 May in a chemical plant launched a telephone service to as- statement announced that the dio- restrictions caused by the at Vsakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, sist those who have no access to cese is also planning to run a “vir- coronavirus pandemic, had already leaving at least 11 dead and hundreds the Internet. Bishop Terry Drainey tual” Lourdes pilgrimage. received more than 6000 calls. injured. Over 5000 people reported enthusiastically welcomed the idea The Church of England simil- The new service was the feeling unwell following the leak at LG and in a press statement the Dio- arly responded to the need to fa- brainchild of Archbishop of Can- Polymers which police say was an acci- cese reported that the first Mass- cilitate communication with those terbury Justin Welby. Available 24 dent. by-phone was launched on who have no access to the Internet hours a day, it provides a broad “The CBCI offers its heartfelt sym- Sunday, 3 May, with the recording with its own free telephone ser- choice of music, prayers, reflec- pathies and assurance of prayers to all of Holy Mass by Father Albert vice. Two days after its launch, the tions and worship services of the those affected” and “calls on the Civil Schembri of St Mary’s Cathedral. “Daily Hope” telephone line, Church of England. “With many authorities to make every effort to find Canon Derek Turnham, who in our country on lockdown, it’s the cause of this gas leak, take steps to oversees communications in the important that we support those prevent its recurrence here and else- diocese, said that although many who are feeling lonely and isol- where and to provide assistance to all parishes have been reaching out to ated, whatever age they are”, said those affected”. Acknowledging that the the faithful via the Internet, we Archbishop Welby. The faithful gas leak is adding pressure to those also knew there were a lot of accessing the service are welcomed already under stress from the pandemic, people who don’t have smart- by a message from the Archbishop the Bishops of India ensured their phones or Internet access. Mean- of Canterbury before being given closeness with “prayers for strength and while, Bishop Drainey of Middles- the vast options available to them. courage”. brough said: “Everyone needs “The volume of calls over the The gas leak began in the early hours hope and encouragement at this first two days really shows that of Thursday, 7 May, as the plant pre- time and I’m delighted that Daily Hope is meeting a need”, pared to reopen following restrictions through digital technology, the said Reverend Canon caused by the lockdown due to the pan- Church is able to give comfort to Male, the Church of England’s demic, catching residents off guard as Catholics and also to others who Director of Evangelism and Dis- they slept. Reports say about 1,000 are not churchgoers and may not cipleship. He described the initi- people were exposed to the gas which consider themselves to be Christi- ative as “a simple idea” that was causes symptoms including headache ans”. “We ’re seeing a new growth put together in a few weeks, with and nausea and burning of the eyes. In- of community spirit”, he contin- Bishop Terry Drainey celebrating a the hope that it would “bring real vestigations are underway to examine ued, “a realisation that we can’t live-streamed Mass at St Mary’s Cathedral comfort, hope and inspiration to the causes of the leak and determine re- make it on our own and we need in Middlesbrough people at this time”. sp onsibility. number 20, Friday, 15 May 2020 L’OSSERVATORE ROMANO page 9

INTERVIEW

with the President of the European Commission

To be strong Europe must be united and solidary

mean today for European citizens in ALESSANDRO GISOTTI not get far. We can only over- have already taken many steps to the throes of the gravest crisis since come major crises, conflicts and support. We have changed the The dream of Robert Schuman the Second World War? reforms together. That also ap- state aid rules to enable govern- and of the Founding Fathers of The European Union has plies to the recovery plan for our ments to help companies that Europe still lives and can help changed the fate of our continent European Union. It must be struggle because of the crisis. We the European peoples to over- for the better. It was born on the powerful and draw Europe’s path are using the full flexibility of our come the crisis caused by the ashes of a crisis which devastated into the future in broad brush- budgetary rules to allow govern- pandemic, strengthening the the continent. And it is in times strokes. I am fighting for a ments to fight the crisis. The foundations of solidarity. On the of crisis like the one we go Europe based on solidarity, which European Union has mobilised so eve of Europe Day, the President through that we can appreciate its courageously embraces the green far more than three trillion euros of the European Commission, true value. For my parents, and digital opportunities and is to support people, companies and Ursula von der Leyen, met with Europe was peace. For my gener- more robustly prepared for future the economy in our Member L’Osservatore Romano and Vatican ation it is freedom and rule of crises. States. This is the most impress- News to discuss the large themes law. For the generation of my ive economic response in the The pandemic is bringing into the of the moment, from the commit- children, it is future and openness world. To give you just one tan- open new nationalistic selfishness. ment to find a vaccine against towards the world. Sometimes we gible example: the EU will help Even Pope Francis has sounded the Covid-19 to measures to support take Europe for granted. We for- keep people in jobs, by support- alarm about this. Do you fear that the continental economy. Von der get how precious it is to live in ing short-time work. We are mak- the European peoples might move Leyen also considered Pope Fran- economic prosperity, social cohe- ing €100 billion available for this further away from its continent-wide cis’ appeals for the unity of sion, in the respect of human scheme, similar to the cassa integ- institutions? What can Europe’s European peoples against nation- rights. Like freedom and good ra z i o n e . Now we need to agree on leaders do to avoid prevent this from alistic egotism and the role that health, we appreciate their real a recovery plan, built around a happening? the European Union can have at value only when we fear losing strong EU budget, which enables the international level after the them. The current pandemic is a We have to be vigilant. But as our economies to bounce back. I end of the pandemic. painful reminder of this. As Al- we see now nationalistic govern- am confident that all EU govern- cide De Gasperi said: “Solo se ments around the globe have no ments understand the magnitude President Ursula von der Leyen, saremo uniti saremo forti, solo se answers in a pandemic, which of the challenge and that we will just months after your election to saremo forti saremo liberi”. We knows neither borders, nor reli- rise up to the task. head the European Commission, you must continue to work for a gions, nor skin colour. At the be- find yourself facing an unprecedented closer, more united Europe. This ginning of the crisis, some EU After this crisis, what role can crisis for Europe. How are you per- year, Europe Day will be a little Member States had the reflex to Europe play on an international sonally coping during this difficult different. But I hope it can still withdraw onto themselves and level? What will multilateralism moment? be a moment of celebration for take measures in an isolated way. look like after this crisis, in your This crisis is testing all of us to all Europeans, a celebration of But in the end, it was not effect- opinion? the limit. For two months now, I friendship, unity and solidarity ive and it created problems. So This virus shows how intercon- have been spending most of my among countries and people. governments remembered rapidly nected the world is. We are faced time in the Berlaymont, the Com- that we can only protect our cit- with a global pandemic and the mission’s building in Brussels. In this moment of the pandemic, izens if we work together, help only way to defeat this virus is Because of the risk of infection, Pope Francis has urged Europe sev- each other and share. Together, through international cooperation there is currently only a core team eral times to return to the Founding we have taken hundreds of meas- and solidarity. This was precisely of about a dozen close staff work- Fa t h e rs ’ dream, a dream of solidar- ures in the EU to ensure that the aim of the Coronavirus Glob- ing there. I talk to the Commis- ity and peace. Is it possible to attain hospitals in Italy or Spain have al Response pledging event that I sioners every day by video, even that dream? How can it be made the equipment that they need, convened on 4 May, jointly with c o n c re t e ? if they are in the same building. I that essential goods, such as several EU governments and oth- try at least once a day, to get On 9 May, we will mark the medicines or food can rapidly er partners. More than 50 heads some fresh air and to see the sun. 70th anniversary of the declara- reach pharmacies or shops, that of state, of governments, health And sometimes I manage to go tion of Robert Schuman, which workers in border regions could organisations and business leaders jogging somewhere green. That’s turned out to be the starting cross the border to do reach their from around the world joined us workplace, and that people are what the soul needs. As well as point of our journey towards the to raise money and kick-start un- kept in employment. Acting con- talking to my husband and adult European Union. Schuman’s de- precedented work on vaccines cretely to protect people’s health children on video every night. claration changed the fate of our and treatments against the and their jobs is what we have to I’m glad, that they’re all well. I continent. His demands for a coronavirus. We pledged 7,4 bil- continue doing. also think of the many families united and solidary Europe are lion euros — more than half of it who are not so lucky and have to more valid than ever. Today, I see from the European Union and its During the financial crisis of 2012, worry a lot about their loved no greater tribute to Schuman’s Mario Draghi, President of the governments. And we brought ones. This is what motivates me words than the solidarity between European Central Bank at the time, under the same roof global or- in my work as President of the EU countries. The Romanian and sustained that the Euro needed to be ganisations working to develop Commission to help countries Norwegian doctors and nurses preserved at any cost. “Whatever it vaccines, treatments and dia- and people around the world to going to Bergamo to tend to the takes”, he said. In your opinion, is gnostics, and to make them avail- cope with this deep crisis in the sick, Germany offering its intens- the European Union today ready to able, at affordable prices, to the best possible way. Many people ive care capacities to patients do “whatever it takes” to save the whole world. The success of this currently have to stay at home. I from Italy, France, the Nether- Continent’s economy? event has shown us, once more, have the chance to do a lot. This lands and Czechia delivering the power of working together. helps me. masks to Spain. The Corona We will do all we can to keep shock also carries a salutary mes- people in jobs and to support We will celebrate Europe Day on sage in a broader sense: those companies threatened by the col- the 9th of May. What can this day who look only to themselves will lapse of economic activity. We page 10 L’OSSERVATORE ROMANO Friday, 15 May 2020, number 20

Friday, 1 May do not change horses in the middle of the knows each one’s name. Indeed he “takes care river”. In other words, moments of crisis are of each one as if it were the only one”, and if For all workers not the moment to make changes but rather at the end of the day one of his flock is miss- to “persevere, remain silent, stay grounded in ing, he will go in search of it no matter what. During his homily for Holy Mass at Santa our convictions” and faithful. A moment of “This is Jesus”, the Pope said. This Sunday Marta on Friday morning, First of May, the crisis, he added, is a call to conversion “that “is a Sunday of peace, tenderness, meekness feast of Saint Joseph the Worker, Pope Fran- may inspire changes for the better”. because our shepherd takes care of us”. cis reflected on the day’s Reading from the As Christians, we have to learn how to Book of Genesis (Gen 1:26, 2:3) on God’s manage both moments of peace and moments work of creation. God, he said, had entrusted of crisis, Pope Francis noted. Times of crisis Monday, 4 May mankind with the task of continuing his work. in the faith are an opportunity to go “t h ro u g h the fire in order to become strong”. At the Indeed human labour “is the vocation that For Families end of his homily, the Pope prayed for the mankind received from God ever since the Lord to send the Holy Spirit so that we may During his homily for Holy Mass at Santa creation of the universe”. Through work, the learn how to resist temptation in times of Marta on Monday, 4 May, the Holy Father Pope added, “men and women act as creators, crisis and be faithful in the hope that mo- reflected on the importance of unity despite and are capable of creating many things, even ments of peace will arrive. “May the Lord differences. Commenting on the day’s First of creating a family”. grant us the strength in moments of crisis not Reading from the Acts of the Apostles, he There is goodness within work itself Pope to sell out the faith”. said the criticism caused by Saint Peter’s de- Francis noted, as he reflected on the image of cision to eat with Gentiles, was one of the ex- God looking at his work of creation and find- amples of division that were present in the ing it to be “very good”. Work “creates har- Sunday, 3 May early years of the Church. It demonstrates mony between things — beauty, goodness — that the spirit of division can lead us to divide and involves every part of the person”. Work For doctors and priests between those who are righteous and those is “man’s first vocation”. It brings dignity to who are sinners, between us and them. On Sunday morning, 3 May, known as Good mankind, and makes us more similar to God. We often believe that we have the correct Shepherd Sunday, the Holy Father reflected position before God, the Pope said. However, on the image of Jesus as a shepherd as he this thought pattern sometimes leads us to be- lieve that others are condemned. This is a dis- ease that arises from the Church born of ideo- logies, Pope Francis explained. The resulting Morning Mass at the Domus danger is that we can become more commit- ted to an ideological position than to listening to the Holy Spirit. And this, he warned, can Sanctae Marthae lead to division. Quoting a metaphor used by a Cardinal emeritus who resides in the Vatican, the Holy Throughout history, the dignity of work has Father said that the Church is like a river in been widely trampled, the Holy Father poin- which some members are closer to one bank ted out, and this continues to persist. “To day or the other, but everyone is in the same river. there are many slaves, many men and women This is how the Lord wants it: “no one out- who are not free to work; they are forced to side, everyone inside”. Jesus died for every- work for enough to live on, nothing more”, he one, even for those who make our lives diffi- said. Pope Francis gave the example of day cult, even for those who do not believe in labourers who work 12-14 hours a day for him. At the end of his homily, Pope Francis miserable wages. “Every injustice inflicted invited the faithful to join him in praying for upon a person who works means trampling the unity of all men and women, and that upon human dignity, even the dignity of the there be only one shepherd, one sole pastor. person who carries out the injustice”, he ex- “May the Lord free us from that psychology plained. However, “the vocation God gives us of division. May he help us see this aspect, is much higher: to create, re-create, work”. this great reality about Jesus: that in him we This can only occur when “conditions are just are all brothers and sisters and he is the shep- and human dignity is respected”. herd of all”, the Pope said. Thus, he con- At the end of his homily, the Holy Father cluded, today’s word if “everyone, everyone”! prayed to Saint Joseph the Worker “to help us fight for the dignity of work, so that there may be work for all and that it may be digni- Tuesday, 5 May fied work, not the work of a slave”. For victims of Covid-19

Saturday, 2 May shared his homily for Holy Mass at Santa Pope Francis’ homily for Holy Mass at Santa Marta, commenting on the First Letter of Marta on Tuesday morning, 5 May, was For government leaders Peter (2:20-25) and the Gospel of John (10:1- centred on faith. The Pope commented on 10). Saint Peter describes Jesus as the one the day’s Gospel reading of John (Jn 10:22- The Holy Father reflected on times of peace who came to save his straying sheep by bear- 30) in which Jesus is asked to openly reveal and times of crisis during his homily for Holy ing their sins. Thanks to Jesus’ death, we were himself as the Christ. Jesus’ response that he Mass at Santa Marta on Saturday morning, 2 able to return to our shepherd. Similarly, had already told them so but they continued May. He highlighted the difference between John describes Jesus as the “door through to disbelieve, should prompt us to reflect on the First Reading which described the early which the flock enters”. our own faith by asking ourselves: “Do I be- Church at peace and the day’s Gospel Read- Unfortunately, the Holy Father noted, there lieve? What makes me stop outside the door ing from John (6:31-42) which narrated the are many “fake shepherds” who wish to ex- that is Jesus”?. moment of crisis when many disciples decided ploit the Lord’s flock. “They are not inter- The Holy Father invited the faithful to con- to no longer follow Jesus. In life there are al- ested in the flock”, but rather in their own sider several “prejudiced attitudes that prevent ways moments of peace and moments of personal interests. But the flock, he said, al- us from progressing in the knowledge of Je- crisis, the Pope said. Critical moments require ways recognizes the good shepherds from the sus”. Wealth he said is among them for it can us to make a choice. bad ones. Indeed a good shepherd is distin- keep us from moving forward. “Do we need It is precisely in a time of crisis, the Pope guished by his very flock because it flourishes to fall into poverty”, he pondered. “No, but continued, that Jesus asks the Apostles to when the shepherd listens, guides and cares we must not become slaves to wealth” b ecause choose whether they want to continue to fol- for the sheep. Only shepherds who are like we cannot serve two masters. low him, which results in Peter’s second con- Jesus can “elicit confidence in their flock”. Another stumbling block to faith, Pope fession of faith: “Lord to whom shall we go? Thus, Jesus’ must also be the pastor’s Francis said, is a rigid heart. Unlike faithful- You have the word of eternal life”. Indeed, al- style as there is no other, the Pope said. ness which is a gift of God, “rigidity is only though “Peter does not understand” Meekness, the Holy Father said, is “one of security for oneself”, he said. To illustrate everything that Jesus is saying, “he trusts the the signs of a good shepherd” because it this rigidity he gave the example of a woman L o rd ”. makes one appear for who they truly are who had come to seek his advice. This wo- Pope Francis then used a proverb from Ar- without any defences whereas a pastor who is man had been to a wedding that had been gentina to illustrate how we should behave in not meek is hiding something. Another identi- celebrated on a Saturday afternoon and was times of crisis in the Church: “When you go fying characteristic of a good shepherd is that on horseback and you have to cross a river, he draws tenderly near each of his sheep and CONTINUED ON PA G E 11 number 20, Friday, 15 May 2020 L’OSSERVATORE ROMANO page 11

Mass for the centenary of Wojtyła’s birth on 18 May, concluding live Masses from Santa Marta

On Monday morning, 18 May, Many discovered the import- Pope Francis will celebrate Mass ance and comfort of the daily at Saint John Paul II’s tomb, for encounter with the Gospel. the 100th anniversary of his birth, Never before had so many and conclude the broadcast of people followed weekday litur- daily Mass from the chapel in the gies on T V, offered without com- papal residence. mentary and with several mo- ments of silent adoration of the ANDREA TORNIELLI Most Holy Sacrament. The beauty and simplicity of Next Monday’s7 AM morning the off-the-cuff homilies de- Mass will be the last in a series livered by the Pope allowed us that has accompanied millions to enter the pages of the Gos- of people throughout the world pel, as if we were present when daily, for over two months. As those events took place. During Masses with people resume in the emergency that has forced Italy, Francis has in fact decided us to remain confined within the to stop the live broadcast of his walls of our houses, the import- morning Mass. The occasion ance of this daily magisterium will be special because 18 May has been confirmed, and made marks the 100th anniversary of even more decisive in moments Karol Wojtyła’s birth, and for of uncertainty, suffering, an- this reason Francis will celebrate guish, and of so many questions Pope Francis praying at the tomb of Saint John Paul II on 22 October 2018 Mass at the tomb of his Prede- about the future. cessor, the Pontiff-Saint, who The Santa Marta homilies was born in 1920, elected Bish- comments extemporaneously on son. Let us not forget another represent a significant aspect of op of Rome in 1978, died in S c r i p t u re . invitation from the Pope: that Fr a n c i s ’ service as Bishop of 2005 and was canonized in 2014. Many millions of people Rome. Many had already been we “visit” the pages of the Gos- The live broadcast by video, entered into contact with these accustomed to following them pel every day, with the daily radio and streaming of the cel- Masses each day. Countless contact to which we have by ebration of morning Mass at through the summaries offered people have written to express by and in the now grown accustomed through Santa Marta and the decision to their thanks. Now, as celebra- the televised Masses at Santa celebrate it daily throughout volumes of the Vatican Printing tions resume with people in Marta. this period of quarantine, was Press, which collects them annu- Italian churches, a new phase an unexpected and beautiful ally. In the last two months, has begun. Many, we can be gift. Many people, even those however, it has been different, sure, will miss this daily ap- Download here “Strong in the who are far from the Church, because the live broadcasts pointment. But, as Francis him- Face of Tribulation”, the LEV's di- felt accompanied and supported offered the opportunity to parti- self has said, we need to return gital collection of all the homilies by the Pope who quietly cipate, albeit at a distance, in to communal familiarity with delivered by the Pope at Santa knocked on the doors of their these daily celebrations, watch- the Lord in the Sacraments, par- Marta during the time of the homes at the start of each day. ing the Pope as he preaches and ticipating in the Liturgy in per- crisis.

Believers united to invoke Morning Mass

the end of the coronavirus pandemic CONTINUED FROM PA G E 10

considering whether that celebration had fulfilled CONTINUED FROM PA G E 1 her Sunday obligation. Once she had realized that the Mass readings did not correspond to wreaked upon the economy and edu- those for Sunday, she was concerned that she cation. Thus, “today, everyone, broth- had committed a mortal sin. This kind of rigid- ers and sisters, of whatever religious ity, the Pope explained, drives us away from “the confession, let us pray”, despite the wisdom and beauty of the Lord, and robs us of fact that “perhaps someone” might our freedom”. object: “This is religious relativism Further interference with faith comes from and it should not be done”. But, the apathy, clericalism and a worldly spirit. Apathy, Pope asked: “how can we not pray to he explained, is “tiredness that takes away our de- the Father of all? Each person prays sire to strive forward and leaves us lukewarm”. as he knows how, as he can, as he has Clericalism seeks to put us in Jesus’ place so that learned from his own culture. We are rather than letting the Master lead we are im- not praying against one another ... no! We are all united as human be- posed with restrictions that must be met before ings, as brothers and sisters ... this is one can enter the door of faith. Worldliness stops imp ortant!”. Afterall, he continued, us at the door of faith. there are also “many others pandem- Apathy, clericalism and worldliness take away ics that kill people, and we do not our freedom and “we cannot follow Jesus without notice it” or “we look the other way”. f re e d o m ”, the Holy Father said. We should con- Suffice it to think that in the “first sider whether we are free from these temptations four months of this year 3,700,000 if we wish to make progress in knowing the Lord. people died of starvation”. Therefore The Pope concluded his homily by asking the the Pontiff made his final invocation Lord to “enlighten us to see within ourselves if that the Lord “also stop the other we have the freedom required to go through the horrible pandemics: hunger, war, chil- door which is Jesus, to go beyond it with Jesus in dren without education. And let us order to become sheep of his flock”. ask this”, he concluded, “all together, For the full texts of the Holy Father’s daily medita- as brothers and sisters”. tions at Santa Marta visit: www.vatican.va page 12 L’OSSERVATORE ROMANO Friday, 15 May 2020, number 20

REGINA CAELI

Seventy years since the signing of the historic Schuman Declaration that inspired the process of integration of the people of Europe, Pope Francis launched a new appeal to European leaders at the end of the Regina Caeli on Sunday, 10 May, in which he urged them “to face the social and economic consequences caused by the pandemic in a spirit of harmony and c o l l a b o ra t i o n ”. Earlier, the Holy Father had reflected on the Gospel passage of John (Jn 14:1-2) which narrates Jesus’ farewell to his disciples at the Last Supper. The following is a translation of the Pope’s address which he delivered in Italian from the library of the Vatican’s Apostolic Palace.

The Pontiff recalls 70th anniversary of the Schuman Declaration May the European Union face the pandemic in a spirit of harmony and collaboration

Renewed appeal for the Sahel, 40 years after John Paul II’s first visit to Africa

Dear Brothers and Sisters, There is then a second remedy affirmation, the ways of selfish the long period of stability and Good Morning, for being troubled, which Jesus power. And there is Jesus’ w a y, peace from which we benefit expresses with these words: “My the way of humble love, of pray- today. May the spirit of the Schu- In today’s Gospel passage (cf. Jn Fa t h e r ’s house has many rooms… er, of meekness, of trust, of ser- man Declaration never fail to in- 14: 1-12), we hear the beginning of I am going there to prepare a vice to others. It is not the way of spire those who hold responsibil- Jesus’ so-called “Farewell dis- place for you” (v. 2). This is what my s e l f - c e n t re d n e s s . It is the way of ity in the European Union, called course”. They are the words he Jesus did for us: he reserved a Jesus, who is the protagonist of my to face the social and economic addresses to the disciples at the place in Heaven for us. He took life. It is to go forth every day, consequences caused by the pan- end of the Last Supper, just be- our humanity upon himself to asking him: “Jesus, what do you demic in a spirit of harmony and fore facing the Passion. In such a carry it beyond death, to a new think of the choice I made? What collab oration. dramatic moment Jesus began by would you do in this situation, place, to Heaven, so that we And our gaze also turns to saying, “Do not let your hearts be might also be where he is. It is with these people?”. It will do us Africa, because on 10 May 1980, t ro u b l e d ” (v. 1). He says it to us the certainty that comforts us: good to ask Jesus, who is the 40 years ago, during his first pas- too, in life’s troubles. But how there is a place reserved for each way, for the directions to reach toral visit to the continent, Saint can we ensure that our hearts are of us. Heaven. May Our Lady, Queen John Paul II gave voice to the cry not troubled? Because the heart of Heaven, help us to follow Je- There is a place for me too. of the people of the Sahel, who does become troubled. sus, who opened Heaven for us. Each of us can say: there is a were harshly tested by drought. The Lord indicates two remed- place for me. We do not live aim- Today I congratulate the young ies for being troubled. The first lessly and without destination. After the Regina Caeli, the Holy Father continued: people who are working for the is: “Believe in me” (v. 1). It would We are awaited. We are precious. initiative “Laudato Si’ Al b e r i ” seem to be rather theoretical, ab- God is in love with us, we are his My thoughts today turn to (Laudato Si’ Trees). The goal is stract advice. Instead, Jesus wants children. And he has prepared for Europe and Africa. To Europe, to plant at least one million trees to tell us something precise. He us the most worthy and beautiful on the occasion of the 70th an- throughout the Sahel region, place: Paradise. Let us not forget knows that, in life, the worst niversary of the Schuman Declar- which will become part of the this: the dwelling place that anxiety, anguish, arises from the ation of 9 May 1950. It inspired “Great Green Wall of Africa”. I awaits us is Paradise. We are in sensation of not being able to the process of European integra- hope that many will follow the transit here. We are made for tion, enabling the reconciliation cope, of feeling alone and example of solidarity shown by Heaven, for eternal life, to live of the peoples of the continent, without points of reference when these young people. forever. Forever: it is something after the Second World War and faced with events. We cannot we cannot even imagine now. But And today, Mother’s Day is be- overcome this anguish alone, it is even more beautiful to think ing celebrated in many countries. when one difficulty is added to that this forever will be entirely in I would like to remember all another. We need Jesus’ help, and joy, in full communion with God mothers with gratitude and affec- this is why Jesus asks us to have and with others, without any tion, entrusting them to the pro- faith in him, that is, to lean not on more tears, without resentment, tection of Mary, our heavenly ourselves but on him. Because without division or turmoil. Mother. My thoughts also turn to liberation from being troubled But how can we reach heaven? mothers who have passed on to depends upon entrusting What is the way? Here is Jesus’ the other life, and who accom- ourselves. Entrusting ourselves to decisive phrase. He says to us pany us from Heaven. Let us be Jesus, taking the “leap”. And this today: “I am the Way” (v. 6). Je- silent a moment so each one of us is liberation from feeling sus is the way to go up to Heav- can remember our mother. [Silent troubled. Jesus is risen and lives en: to have a living relationship pause]. precisely to be always by our with him, to imitate him in love, I wish you all a Happy side. We can thus say to him, “Je- to follow in his footsteps. And I, Sunday. Please do not forget to sus, I believe that you rose again a Christian, you, a Christian, pray for me. Enjoy you lunch! and are beside me. I believe that every one of us Christians, can Ar r i v e d e rc i . you listen to me. I bring to you ask ourselves: “Which way do I what upsets me, my troubles; I follow?”. There are ways that do have faith in you and I entrust not lead to Heaven: the ways of myself to you”. worldliness, the ways of self- The Schuman Declaration