Pope Francis having food with those staying at the 'Palace of the Poor' in the Vatican 
Pope establishes a new law for the Vatican
Pope Francis has created a new law that will regulate the judicial system of the Vatican City State.
The new law, announced last week, will provide greater independence for the judiciary and simplify judicial processes.
According to a statement from the Holy See Press Office, the new law is intended to meet the current needs for greater efficiency from the previous law issued by Pope St John Paul II in 1987, amended by Pope Benedict XVI in 2008.
The law allows more freedom of judicial bodies and magistrates dependent on the Pope, specifying the requirements for the appointment of judges and increasing the staff of the court.
Additionally, it provides a head for the Office of the Promoter of Justice and sets out a standardised procedure for possible disciplinary action against certified advocates.
The legislation, according to the press office statement, comes in the wake of regulatory reforms at the Vatican in relation to economic, financial issues and criminal law.
The law is also a response to the Vatican’s accession to various international conventions.
Vatican law is unique in that it recognises the canonical system as the primary source of legislation and criterion for its interpretation.
Vatican official sees opportunity for Easter despite lockdown
Vatican Cardinal Beniamino Stella believes Catholics can still turn the tragedy caused by the coronavirus pandemic into an experience of Faith and hope this Easter.
In an interview with Vatican News last week, Cardinal Stella says the lockdown during Lenten season is a call to prepare for Christ’s resurrection in people’s own homes.
The prefect of the Congregation for Clergy says despite the prospect of thousands of Catholics celebrating Easter without a large parish or Vatican liturgies, there are “possibilities” and “opportunities”.
“There are still possibilities to transform this tragedy into an opportunity for Faith,” said Cardinal Stella.
“I believe that technology truly allows us to live a communion that would seem virtual. But, in fact, it is not just virtual.”
He added: “I believe that the Holy Spirit also passes through these new things in today’s world and speaks to hearts, speaks to consciences, speaks to little ones and speaks to great ones.”
Cardinal Stella said it was important for everyone to be in touch with friends and loved ones in order to “create a beautiful network that unites us in this moment”.
Vatican offices, services for the poor to remain open
The Holy See Press Office has announced that Vatican offices will remain open in order “to ensure the essential services to the Universal Church”.
In addition, the Vatican will continue to offer shower facilities, sleeping quarters and food assistance to the poor and homeless, who sleep rough around St Peter’s Square. “Don’t ignore the poor Lazarus who knocks at your door,” said Cardinal Konrad Krajewski last week.
The Almoner of the Office of Papal Charities said the Vatican would continue to heed the cry of the poor despite the coronavirus outbreak.
“Though we maintain a safe physical distance, put on gloves, and avoid assemblies, we can still help those who are right beside us,” he said.
The Papal Almoner said his office would continue to offer food assistance services and added that the newly-opened ‘Palace for the Poor’ will still offer a warm bed and breakfast for those who come calling.
