Two days ago, the Zagreb Archdiocese's press office said that the Bishops' Conferences throughout Europe celebrated masses for the victims of the pandemic from Ash Wednesday throughout Lent according to a set schedule, with the HBK's turn to celebrate the Holy Mass being on 24 February.
During his sermon, Cardinal Bozanić said that the tragedy of the COVID-19 pandemic had raised awareness of the fact that all people were in the same boat, with the hardship of an individual affecting the whole community.
The dignitary expressed gratitude to all heroes and messengers of the Christian charity.
"The pandemic and earthquakes have made it possible for us to recognise and appreciate our brethren who have risked their lives for others in situations imbued with fears," he said.
In that context, Bozanić pointed out doctors, nurses, medical technicians, pharmacists, carers, cleaners, drivers, shop assistants, police, army, firefighters, state officials and other servants from rescue services and volunteers, especially young people. He also thanked priests and nuns and many others willing to help other people.
CCEE President Cardinal Angelo Bagnasco, who released a video message on the occasion of the prayer initiative, said that "each European Bishops' Conference has engaged in the organisation of at least one Mass: It will be like creating a prayer chain, a Eucharistic chain in memory and in suffrage of so many people. In this prayer we also want to remember the bereaved families and all those who are still suffering from the virus and whose lives remain in uncertainty."