«It is a hard moment that must also be an opportunity to offer our sympathy and face together as a family … this disease that knows neither skin color nor limits, so we must follow the government provisions as a moral obligation», says the statement from the Peruvian Episcopal Conference (CEP) sent to Fides News Agency, which concerns the Coronavirus emergency (Covid-19) in this country.
Cardinal Pedro Barreto, in a speech on national television yesterday, invited the population to remain calm in the face of the state of emergency decreed by the government, in order to stop the spread of the coronavirus (covid-19). A certain «amazement» on behalf of many citizens is normal because it is an unprecedented decision in our history, but at the same time, it is an «understandable» measure. «The important thing is that together we will move forward, the important thing is to remain calm, I am the first to pay attention to this decision and we must respect it», he said. Likewise, he said that this measure affects a vast sector of people, of those who work «day by day» with the intention of bringing bread home. «I have seen people cry for not knowing what to do because some are day laborers, but I ask to keep calm and offer sympathy», he added.
The Peruvian population is experiencing moments of fear and bewilderment, following the measures taken to stay at home and not work in squares, markets, places open to the general public. The economy of the middle class and the majority of the population in the cities of the country live with the work done per day, so there is the risk of having nothing at the end of the day.
The CEP statement signed by Mgr. Miguel Cabrejos Vidarte, OFM, Metropolitan Archbishop of Trujillo and President of CEP also informs of the new provision for which each diocese must obtain digital tools and offer Sunday mass and Holy Week celebrations through the internet. «Living Holy Week» in many cities in the Andes means being together to pray, touch the sacred images, use the blessed water and carry the Saints in procession who have protected the people for centuries. The request of the Peruvian Bishops coincides with what Pope Francis has asked the Catholics in the world: pray for the reconquest of life, defeat fear and live hope.
