Pope Francis Visits Two Churches in Rome, Prays for End of Coronavirus Pandemic

CORONAVIRUS In spite of demands to stay at home as much as possible from Italian health authorities, Pope Francis Sunday, March 15, left the Vatican to make a surprise visit to two churches in Rome. ————————— READ MORE: The pope's trip included a brief stroll on a central Rome shopping street, Via del Corso, to pray for the end of the coronavirus pandemic. Francis prayed in the Basilica of Saint Mary Major, then went to a church which has a crucifix carried in a 1522 procession in Rome when the city was stricken with plague. The Vatican has taken an unprecedented decision due to the coronavirus outbreak. All Holy Week services with Pope Francis will be held without a congregation, including Easter Sunday mass.