As countries in Asia and around the world celebrate the Lunar New Year, Pope Francis extended his best wishes after praying the midday Angelus on January 22.
“Today I would like to express my wish for peace and every good to all those in the Far East, and in various parts of the world, who are celebrating the Lunar New Year,” he said.
But, the Pope alluded to the Covid situation hitting China, saying that “Nevertheless, on this joyous occasion, I cannot fail to mention my spiritual nearness to those who are going through difficult times due to the coronavirus pandemic, with the hope that these present difficulties might soon be overcome.”
The Holy Father also expressed his good wishes for families gathered together to celebrate:
Lastly, I hope that the kindness, sensitivity, solidarity and harmony that are being experienced in the families who are reunited in these days as is customary, might ever more permeate and characterize our family and social relationships so as to live a serene and happy life. Happy New Year!
