Archbishop Eamon Martin welcomes today’s extraordinary Urbi et Orbi blessing by Pope Francis

Today’s extraordinary Urbi et Orbi blessing by Pope Francis will be broadcast live by RTÉ News Now today at 5.00pm.

"Pope Francis’ blessing will be an opportunity to avail ourselves of Divine Grace.  I encourage everyone to watch this special broadcast” – Archbishop Eamon

Today, Friday, 27 March, at 5.00pm Irish time, the Holy Father Pope Francis will preside over an extraordinary global celebration (Statio orbis) of prayer.  It will take place on the sagrato of Saint Peter’s Basilica, Rome, the platform at the top of the steps immediately in from of the façade of the church.  The ceremony will consist of readings from the Scriptures, prayers of supplication, and adoration of the Blessed Sacrament; and will conclude with Pope Francis giving his Urbi et Orbi (to the City [of Rome] and to the world) blessing.  During this prayer ceremony the Pope will grant to participants all over the world a plenary indulgence in the context of the Coronavirus.

Archbishop Eamon's full statement can be viewed here.