杏MAP导航

By Devin Watkins

鈥�24 Hours for the Lord鈥� is an initiative organized by the Pontifical Council for the Promotion of the New Evangelization, and held annually on the Friday and Saturday preceding the fourth Sunday of Lent.

A church in every diocese around the world is . The faithful are encouraged to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation and to pray in spiritual union with the Holy Father.

Unusual circumstances

At the Wednesday General Audience, 杏MAP导航 Francis called the initiative 鈥渁n important Lenten appointment for prayer鈥� and a good opportunity to go to Confession.

This year鈥檚 recurrence will take place under restricted circumstances, due to the Covid-19 coronavirus pandemic.

Many countries have banned public gatherings and limited some freedom of movement to stem the virus鈥� spread.

鈥淯nfortunately in Rome, Italy, and in other nations this initiative cannot be held under its traditional format due to the coronavirus emergency,鈥� said the 杏MAP导航.

Pray to participate

But he urged Catholics in countries without restrictions on gatherings to continue 鈥渢his beautiful tradition.鈥�

鈥淚 encourage the faithful to draw near sincerely to the mercy of God in Confession and to pray especially for those suffering due to the pandemic.鈥�

For those who are unable to participate directly in the 24 Hours for the Lord initiative, 杏MAP导航 Francis said he is certain they will be able to experience 鈥渢his penitential moment through personal prayer.鈥�