Pope Francis started livestreaming services this week as part of an effort to contain the coronavirus outbreak.
At Tuesday's virtual Mass, the pope prayed that Catholic priests might have the courage to visit people sickened by the coronavirus. On Wednesday, instead of delivering his weekly catechism to tens of thousands of people in St. Peter's Square, Pope Francis livestreamed from his private library.
This week, Italy's prime minister extended a lockdown in northern Italy to the entire country. He said there would be no more public gatherings, including sporting events, and that people would only be allowed to travel for essential business, or for health or family emergencies.
The Vatican, along with the church in Italy, has been working with Italian authorities to slow the spread of the virus. The Holy See Press Office announced Sunday the Sistine Chapel and other tourist areas would be closed until April 3 as the disease spreads in Italy.
The Vatican has had one confirmed case of COVID-19, the illness caused by the coronavirus. Five people who came into contact with that person are quarantined.
Additional reporting from The Associated Press.
Contains footage from CNN.
