Archbishop calls for prayers for those affected by coronavirus

This story was updated Feb. 26.

Vancouver Archbishop J. Michael Miller has urged the faithful to pray for “the suffering Church in China” as the impact of the corona virus continues to grow worldwide.

In a statement, Archbishop Miller said, “The outbreak of the coronavirus is an invitation to continue our prayers for the suffering Church in China. As Chinese health and political officials struggle to contain the virus, please pray that they see in the response of the global community a solidarity rooted in Christian charity. May God grant wisdom and healing as the countries of the world work to prevent a global epidemic. Our Lady of Lourdes, pray for us.”

INFORMATION ON NOVEL CORONAVIRUS: Up-to-date information and resources on novel coronavirus here.

Although B.C. health officials say only seven cases of COVID-19 have been discovered in the province as of Feb. 26 and the risk here is low, some Catholic communities are taking precautions about spreading illness.

Father Richard Au, pastor of Canadian Martyrs Parish, has obtained a dispensation from attending Mass for members of his largely Chinese congregation who have recently travelled to regions affected by the virus, have been in contact with anyone who might be infected, or are coughing or feverish. Those who don’t attend Mass “must practise other forms of piety for an hour” such as reading the Bible or praying the Rosary.

Since the announcement was made public, Father Au has noticed a decrease in attendance at Sunday Mass, while the hand sanitizer dispensers are in high demand, as are the automatic door openers, with parishioner using their elbows instead of hands to push the button.

“Everyone has someone or has a connection” to someone in Wuhan, China, the epicentre of the virus, he said. The constant information and misinformation about new cases, compounded by fear, has led to parishioners showing up at the church “at nighttime, knocking on the door and pouring their hearts out and their tears out.”

Father Au is urging his congregation to offer their prayers and Lenten sacrifices, starting on Ash Wednesday, Feb. 26, “for the people affected, the people who are dying.”

The Archdiocese of Vancouver sent a message to parishes Jan. 30 advising pastors they may suggest parishioners nod rather than shake hands with each other during the Sign of Peace.

Pope Francis has asked the faithful “to pray for our Chinese brothers and sisters” who are affected by the “cruel” coronavirus epidemic.

“May they find a path to recovery as soon as possible,” he said as the overall number of infections is estimated at than 44,000 on mainland China, with cases in more than 20 countries.     

With files from CNA.

Related: