Italy has declared that the entire country, that is more than 60 million people, is in lockdown. Public gatherings have been banned and travel has been significantly restricted in an attempt to stop the spread of coronavirus. Italy is struggling to the outbreak, Europe's worst, as it has claimed the lives of 463 people and infected 9,172. 

The Church in Italy has lifted the obligation to attend Sunday Mass and, in some places, public Masses likely to draw large numbers of people have been suspended. We may all be feeling the effects of the response to contain the virus by the changes that have been made to Masses in particular. In the UK, Holy Water has been removed from the stoops, the sign of peace is being omitted, and Mass/hymn books are not being used. However, we are so fortunate that Mass is being said and that we have the opportunity to go. We cannot imagine how heartbreaking it is for those who cannot get to Mass. Perhaps this week we can offer our time in prayer at Mass for those who are unable to go at this time, particularly the vulnerable, those who have died and their families, and those who are suffering. 

A beautiful Italian Saint, patron saint of bodily sickness/ persons who are ill, is St Juliana Falconieri. On her deathbed, she was so unwell she was unable to receive Holy Communion (reminding us to think about those unable to receive Holy Communion at the moment in Italy). She requested that the priest spread a corporal upon her breast and to lay the Host on it. Shortly afterwards the Host disappeared and Juliana died, and the image of a cross, such as had been on the Host, was found on her breast. St Juliana Folconieri - Pray for us!