<p>Pope Francis is denouncing the mafia and all those who are taking advantage of the coronavirus pandemic to make money.</p>.<p>Francis opened his morning Mass on Wednesday by praying that “all those who profit off the needs of others, and sell them” experience spiritual conversion.</p>.<p>Francis' homily was dedicated to the biblical story of Judas betraying Jesus — a narrative Christians commemorate this week in the run-up to liturgical services marking Christ's Last Supper, crucifixion and resurrection on Easter.</p>.<p>In his remarks, Francis said everyone has a “little Judas inside of us” who makes a choice between loyalty to others or self-interest.</p>.<p>He said: “Each one of us has the capacity to betray, to sell others, to choose our own interests.”</p>.<p>Speaking of mobsters and money lenders, he said: “May the Lord touch their hearts and convert them.”</p>.<p>Italian officials have warned that organized crime groups are maneuvering to profit off the social and economic disruptions caused by Italy's virus-induced nationwide shutdown.</p>
<p>Pope Francis is denouncing the mafia and all those who are taking advantage of the coronavirus pandemic to make money.</p>.<p>Francis opened his morning Mass on Wednesday by praying that “all those who profit off the needs of others, and sell them” experience spiritual conversion.</p>.<p>Francis' homily was dedicated to the biblical story of Judas betraying Jesus — a narrative Christians commemorate this week in the run-up to liturgical services marking Christ's Last Supper, crucifixion and resurrection on Easter.</p>.<p>In his remarks, Francis said everyone has a “little Judas inside of us” who makes a choice between loyalty to others or self-interest.</p>.<p>He said: “Each one of us has the capacity to betray, to sell others, to choose our own interests.”</p>.<p>Speaking of mobsters and money lenders, he said: “May the Lord touch their hearts and convert them.”</p>.<p>Italian officials have warned that organized crime groups are maneuvering to profit off the social and economic disruptions caused by Italy's virus-induced nationwide shutdown.</p>