September 20, 2020 - "Our World Today & Suggestions from Archbishop Lori"

When I first heard reports about the corona virus affecting so many people in China, I wasn’t sure what to think about this news.  Then I heard about cases breaking out in various parts of our country.  I think that the seriousness of our situation really hit home on Sunday, March 8, when a parishioner who was a physician warned me about the seriousness of the pandemic that would soon be upon us.  Before that week was out we were instructed to close down.  In the first few days and weeks I was concerned about how we would function as a parish.  By Easter time we decided to have live-streamed Mass.  We had no idea how well that it would be received.  Soon it became clear that we should do it every week until we would be able to open again.  In the meantime I have learned to use an internet tool about which I had never heard:  Zoom.  Over the next six months I have become somewhat adept at hosting Zoom conferences.  While meetings in person would be much better, most of us have learned to live with Zoom.  Because of it, life can carry on.
 
As I read or listen to what people say in print media or social media, I detect that people are becoming more and more cross with each other.  The spirit of cooperation is dying down, whereas impatience and aggravation are increasing.
 
You may be wondering what we can do while the pandemic is raging.  In a recent column in the Catholic Review, Archbishop William Lori of Baltimore gave four recommendations for us as we cope with this pandemic.  Let me repeat them here in case you haven’t already seen them.
 
First, we have to fast and pray for an end to this pandemic. We are rooting for the medical professionals to come up with a vaccine and effective treatment, but we should also be begging the Lord to remove this scourge from us. The evil one will tempt us to think that God does not listen. Our prayer must be full of faith, persistent and humble. 
 
Second, through prayer, we must maintain a supernatural perspective. By keeping our eyes fixed on the Lord, we are better able to focus on what we need to do here and now to protect our loved ones and to serve the common good. As St. Paul wrote, “God makes all things work together for the good of those who love him” (Rom 8:28). 
 
Third, we will be better equipped for the long haul if we have empathy for others. The pandemic has upended everyone’s lives, but some have suffered more than others. When we have a heart for the sufferings of others help, we put our own burdens in a better perspective.
 
Fourth, we need to help one another through this. This includes our family members and loved ones but also our neighbors, friends, co-workers and even people outside our comfort zone.
 
Let me provide the link here for those who want to access his article: https://catholicreview.org/the-long-haul/.
 
In the meantime let us remember those very important words from Jesus to St. Faustina Kowalska:  Jesus, I trust in You.
 
Until next week,
Fr. John