Pope Francis is following the alarming increase in coronavirus cases in the world. Therefore, at the end of the Angelus, he addressed those who are suffering its consequences.
POPE FRANCIS
“Dear brothers and sisters, in this time, when the pandemic does not seem to be stopping, I want to assure my closeness to all those facing the disease and its economic and social consequences.'
According to Johns Hopkins University, the number of global coronavirus deaths already exceeds 600,000. Thus, the pope insisted on the proposal for a global ceasefire by the UN, to help care for the sick and prevent the spread of the virus.
POPE FRANCIS
'I renew the call for an immediate and global ceasefire that will allow the peace and security that is essential for the necessary humanitarian assistance to be given.'
The pope is also concerned about a conflict that has been reactivated these days in the Caucasus Mountains. Armenia and Azerbaijan have resumed armed conflict for control of the Nagorno Karabakh region, and have caused more than a dozen deaths.
POPE FRANCIS
'I hope that, with the effort of the international community and through dialogue and the good will of the parties, a lasting peaceful solution can be reached.'
In Italy, although there is greater freedom of movement, crowding is still prohibited to avoid contagions. So the Vatican is far more empty than usual, with fewer pilgrims this summer in St. Peter's Square.
Javier Romero
Translation: Melissa Butz
