Trust in Mary is stronger than Covid-19

On March 22, 2020, Madagascar, like most countries in the world, declared a state of health emergency. "The churches were closed at a central moment of the Christian faith: the last week of Lent—known as Passion Week—before celebrating Holy Week," Father Martial Ramiakadaoro, national director of the Pontifical Missionary Works of Madagascar, told Fides Agency, describing how the local Church experienced the situation of closure caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.

This pandemic, said the national director of the Pontifical Missionary Societies, has not weakened the faith of the Malagasy people. "The faithful have not questioned their faith in God despite the epidemic. On the contrary, a revival of faith was perceptible, even though the churches were closed. More and more faithful dedicated themselves to personal prayer at home, taking advantage of the Marian month to recite the Rosary with their families. This event put them in search of God's presence and power."

"The Head of State has consulted with Church leaders on the decisions to be taken that affect the life and faith of the people. Even though the consequences of the pandemic have influenced the social and economic situation of the country, like many other countries in the world, the Church has remained a source of life and a place of hope for the Malagasy people," concluded the National Director of the Pontifical Missionary Works.

Adapted from: Fides Agency May 14, 2020