Seated and wearing a mask, Cardinal John Tong Hon suspended Masses in Hong Kong until Feb. 28. He asked Catholics to follow them online, including Ash Wednesday. The only exception will be for weddings that were already scheduled and funerals. This is in response to the coronavirus epidemic.
CARD. JOHN TONG HON
Apostolic Administrator of Hong Kong
“At this difficult time, everyone should not panic. We must deepen our trust in God and implement our Christian love for our neighbors and all people.”
During Wednesday's General Audience, the pope asked for prayers for the citizens of China.
POPE FRANCIS
Let us also pray for our Chinese brothers and sisters who suffer from this illness, so cruel. May they find the path to healing as quickly as possible.
In the midst of the outbreak, the World Health Organization convened a research forum to mobilize international action in response to the coronavirus that has so far infected more than 60,000 people and has claimed more than 1,100 lives.
Daniel Díaz Vizzi
Melissa Butz
