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The social distancing and uncertainty we all face daily due to COVID-19 is an ongoing struggle, but for many there are additional wounds and heartaches to be navigated. Prior to the pandemic, when a loved one was nearing the end of their life, we had the ability to be present in their final moments. We were able to gather as friends and family to mourn their passing. We were able to support one another as we began the long process of healing. Sadly, these opportunities may no longer be options as the elderly are quarantined, hospitals restrict visitors and family are not able to attend funerals. But we must grieve in order to begin to heal. What are some ways in which we can grieve during these troubling times?
It’s certainly strange to hear those joyful words proclaimed on a livestreamed Mass viewed from a smartphone in my living room. But it is Easter, and it is a time of celebration, even when the pandemic limits our ability to celebrate in typical ways. So, what are we doing to keep hope alive during these times?
When faced with uncertainties, adversities or trials, those who place their trust in Christ will not be left alone to fend for themselves, Pope Francis said. Just as the disciples left Jerusalem after Christ's death and headed to Emmaus with only their sadness and fear, people may often find themselves discouraged when solely focused on their own hopelessness, the pope said April 27 before reciting the "Regina Coeli" prayer.
“God became man, so that man might become God.” This is a rather shocking phrase. Written by St. Athanasius in the fourth century, it succinctly captures the truth of the Christian faith. Since we celebrate this great saint’s feast May 2, I want to share a story which might help illuminate this Christian boast penned by Athanasius.
The first and only movie I have ever watched while wearing a full suit and tie was, of all things, Disney’s “Frozen 2.” Five brother seminarians and I did not have time to change after an event, so there we were, six grown men decked out in black suits, watching what was then the latest Disney release.
As I stood at the ambo and began the narration from the Passion of the Lord, I looked up and saw only an iPad looking back at me. The pews in the church were empty and it was absolutely silent. The parishioners could see me on their livestream, but I could not see them. This was my first Palm Sunday as a seminarian and as a lector and it could not have been more unusual.
A Scottish bishop speaks on the first day of the event organized by an apostolate for people who experience same-sex attraction.
A parishioner's idea to honor his late wife by funding a project to sew cloth masks to give away at St. John Neumann Church in Reston has resulted in an impressive undertaking involving more than 35 volunteers who have already made more than 600 masks.
Tens of thousands of Vietnamese Catholics took part in a special online Mass and prayed to Our Lady of La Vang for their nation and the world to soon overcome the COVID-19 pandemic.
