Pope Francis is also urging persons across the world to get vaccinated amid the fast spreading of the Delta variant. The Pope says getting the COVID-19 vaccine is “an act of love” as the head of the world’s 1.2 billion Catholics joins a campaign to boost confidence in COVID-19 shots.

Pope Francis, the appeal came on Wednesday, August 18, urging people to get vaccinated against COVID-19, saying the vaccines could bring an end to the pandemic, and persons should take the jab.

Vaccines are widely available in mainly wealthy countries; Pope Francis says mistrust and hesitancy over the newly developed shots are leaving many vulnerable as the Delta variant rapidly spreads. In the meantime, members of the Catholic faith locally have joined the chorus in promoting the vaccines.

Reverend Peter Espeut, Roman Catholic Deacon and Dean of Studies at St. Michael’s Theological College, echoes the same sentiment as the Pope. Reverend Espeut notes the Pope’s statement is timely and has an impact.

Regarding educating members of the Catholic faith who may have concerns, Reverend Espeut says he continues to use biblical teachings to help eradicate the myths surrounding the vaccines. The reverend further adds that while governments across the globe are aiming to achieve herd immunity, he notes the vaccine does not hinder the virus.

More in this CVM Live story from Javine Mclean: