Pope Francis launches global fund for Coronavirus mission response
The Scottish Catholic Observer reports:
Pope Francis has established an emergency fund in response to the Coronavirus crisis to support ongoing missionary work throughout the world.
The Holy Father set up the special fund via the Pontifical Mission Societies—his official charity for overseas mission—of which Missio Scotland is the Scottish branch. The funds will be directed to communities who have been hit hardest by the global pandemic.
The Emergency Fund will be used to accompany impacted communities in mission countries and territories via Church structures and institutions.
“Coronavirus is affecting the whole world especially those countries least able to deal with it,” Fr Vincent Lockhart, Missio Scotland’s National Director, said.
Human family
“This is particularly the case in many parts of African and Asia where the Church is, in many places, the only source of healthcare and education. Through this new initiative, Pope Francis reminds us that despite the coronavirus we still remain one family and should make even more of an effort to support our brothers and sisters who are very much in need.
“That way they will not feel forgotten, alone or isolated. Love unites and this is what the Holy Father’s appeal is all about.”
Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, the Prefect of the Congregation for the Evangelisation of Peoples, elaborated on the need to support our brothers and sisters around the world at this troubling time, especially those who depend on Church structures and institutions.