Pope saddened by violations of lockdown in Italy

Pope Francis on Sunday said he was very saddened that some people managed to slip away on vacations while so many are suffering economic problems or are ill during COVID-19 holiday lockdowns. During noon prayer remarks at the Vatican, Francis said no one knows what 2021 has in store, but he added, "what each of us and all of us together can do is to commit ourselves a little more to taking care of others" and of the environment, "our common home".

He acknowledged that there is the temptation to look after one's interests and to "live hedonistically, trying only to satisfy one's own pleasure". Throughout the pandemic, the pontiff has stressed caring for those most in need and obeying anti-contagion measures.Instead of appearing at a window overlooking St. Peter's Square, as he usually does on Sundays, Francis delivered his remarks, carried on television and social media, from inside a Vatican palazzo, in keeping with pandemic strategy to discourage crowds.

The Vatican on Saturday said it expects to start administering COVID-19 vaccinations in mid-January.The brief statement didn't say if 84-year-old Pope Francis would be getting the vaccine.It specified priority would go to Vatican health and security workers, to the elderly and front line workers.

Some 450 people, including the Swiss Guards, reside in Vatican City, while many others work in its offices, museums and other facilities. Vatican City has registered at least 27 confirmed cases of coronavirus.Some cases last fall included Swiss Guards, who generally attend events with the Pope.

(Image Credit: AP)