There is no doubt that the coronavirus pandemic has created difficulties for people around the world. In addition to the many deaths, people have been isolated from their loved ones and left without work or working in difficult circumstances.
In his comments after praying the noonday Angelus on December 20, 2020, with the pilgrims gather in St. Peter Square, Pope Francis asked for Mary to comfort the maritime workers around the world facing dislocation due to the virus.
«Dear brothers and sisters, the coronavirus pandemic has caused particular distress to maritime workers,» the Holy Father said. «Many of them – an estimated 400,000 worldwide – are stranded on ships, beyond the terms of their contracts, and are unable to return home.
«I ask the Virgin Mary, Stella Maris, to comfort these people and all those in difficult situations, and I urge governments to do all they can to enable them to return to their loved ones.»
