Pope Francis has called for a “marathon” of prayer during the month of May to appeal for divine assistance in bringing about an end to the COVID pandemic. Marian shrines around the world have been chosen by the Holy See to lead the rosary each day of the month.
In the United States, the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C. lead the rosary on Monday, May 17. Cardinal Wilton Gregory, archbishop of Washington, lead the recitation of the rosary at 12:00 PM ET that day for the special intention of world leaders and the heads of international organizations as they continue to work to combat the pandemic.