COMECE: launch of SanctuaryStreaming.eu, sanctuaries and churches in Europe now online. Streaming of Paschal Triduum from 17 countries

An online platform to “reach” the major sanctuaries of Europe. Today, Thursday 9 April, at the beginning of the Paschal Triduum, when churches and shrines would have normally been open to welcome millions of believers from across the continent, the Commission of the Bishops’ Conferences of the European Union (COMECE) launches “SanctuaryStreaming.eu”. “In the context of the current Covid-19 pandemic and the impossibility for many to physically participate in the celebrations and prayer moments of the Church, a few days before Easter”, the online platform is “offering live streaming services from Catholic sanctuaries and churches in Europe”. From Lourdes to Prague, from Pompei to Oropa, to the sanctuaries in Poland and Spain, Switzerland and Portugal, Ireland and Belgium, the “virtual pilgrim” (thanks to a brief fact sheet) is assisted in learning more about the origins, history, and artistic and spiritual value of each temple, and is given a chance to watch the live stream of religious services - which is probably the most exciting and important news. The platform “was built in response to the needs of many faithful who - due to the precautionary measures taken by governments to contain the spread of the Covid-19 pandemic - are prevented from going to churches and sanctuaries, where they used to go to pray and ask for support”.

Valentina Bombelli