The Spiritual Exercises for the Roman Curia have begun, but this year different than in the past.

According to a statement from the Holy See Press Office, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Feb. 21-26 Lenten exercises will not involve a physical retreat this year.

This marks the first time in some 100 years that the Curia will not partake in this tradition.

“Given the persistence of the current health emergency,” the statement began, “this year it will not be possible to live the Spiritual Exercises of the Roman Curia in community at the  Casa Divin Maestro  in Ariccia.”

“The Holy Father therefore invited the Cardinals residing in Rome, the Dicastery Heads and the Superiors of the Roman Curia to provide for it personally, retiring in prayer, from the afternoon of Sunday 21 to Friday 26 February.”

During this week, all the Holy Father’s commitments are, as usual, suspended, including the General Audience.

Last year, before the coronavirus would strike strongly Italy, members of the Roman Curia were able to gather in Ariccia.

However, as Pope Francis was battling a cold, he participated from his residence Casa Santa Marta, but did not attend.

“I am accompanying you from here,” Pope Francis wrote from the Vatican to those participating, according to Vatican News.

“I will do the Exercises in my room, following Fr Bovati’s (last year’s preacher) preaching, to whom I extend my gratitude. I pray for you. Please, pray for me.”