Pope Francis entrusts Rome, Italy, and the world to the Blessed Virgin Mary’s protection (Vatican Press Office)

“In these days of health emergency, the Holy Father entrusts the City, Italy and the world to the protection of the Mother of God, as a sign of salvation and hope,” Holy See Press Office director Matteo Bruni said in a March 10 Italian-language statement. Bruni also said that the Pope has sent a video message to special private Mass in Rome for a day of prayer and fasting.