Italian Archbishop of the Forces thanks soldiers involved in Coronavirus emergency

By Vatican News

In a message, the Archbishop writes, "as in the most critical moments in the history of our country, the military are on the front line, despite the concrete risks…”

He goes on to say that the "the military represent a point of reference for the population, responding to calls, requests, fears of the people that are not always predictable".

The Archbishop also recalls those who serve abroad, who have institutional commitments or must "organize and manage an emergency, taking demanding, delicate and difficult decisions every day".

During the message, Archbishop Marcianò mentions in particular military chaplains who, he says, carry out their work with dedication and love, in the name of Christ and the Church.

"The history of this virus, with the restrictions imposed," he says “reminds us of the value of life. We can do without many superfluous things”, the Archbishop adds, “but we can't do without each other.”

Archbishop Marcianò says that although this situation is unprecedented, it is important “to give the last word to hope and reflection, to concentrate on the essential, to rediscover the beauty of human and family relationships, and to rediscover the interior space.”

Just like in dramatic moments in history and during natural disasters, the Archbishop invites people to turn their gaze to the Lord”, and ask for Our Lady's maternal help.