The ancient crucifix usually kept in the church of San Marcello and the icon of Mary Salus Populi Romani from the Basilica of St Mary Major, were brought to St Peter’s for the prayers.
As the evening sky darkened the Blessed Sacrament was brought to a special altar for Adoration, and the Holy Father imparted his Apostolic Blessing, offering everyone watching the opportunity to receive a plenary indulgence.
But first, Pope Francis gave a meditation on the crisis facing the world, reflecting on the calming of the storm, from the Gospel of Mark.
Read more on this story from Independent Catholic News.
Watch the service from EWTN: www.youtube.com/watch?v=RvE1ncKned8
File picture of Pope Francis by Mazur/catholicnews.org.uk