I am missing everyone so very much. Celebrating Mass in an empty church is so foreign; I thought I would get used to it, but there is nothing like being in common-union with each other. This week we will hear the Gospel of the Road to Emmaus. The closing line speaks of exactly why we gather together as Catholics; “He was made known to them in the breaking of the bread!”
Communion is central to our faith. As Catholics we believe that the bread we eat and the wine we drink is the actual body and blood of Christ. The scriptures make it clear that Jesus said, “This is my body, this is my blood!” He did not say, this is a “symbol” or a “sign”. It is real presence. The command “Do this in remembrance of me!” has been carried out over more than two millennia as we read in Paul’s letters (1 Cor. 11:23-26) and in Acts of the Apostles in several places. This is how we as Catholics “Keep Holy the Sabbath.”
On Sunday, I asked during the announcements to let me know or post on our parish Facebook, how are you (and your family) keeping the faith in time of coronavirus? We need to encourage each other during this time and sharing ways to deepen our faith. Some families are finally having meals together and are praying before and after meals. Others are doing a litany of names of people they know and love and asking God to bless and protect them. One family mentioned that they are praying the rosary each day together. Another is praying the Angelus every noon for the pandemic to end and for people to be safe.
Monday morning Lynne Patton wrote: “If it wasn't for the church being open, I wouldn't be in the frame of mind I am today. Prayer has been my path every day. I find myself doing more of it and really listening to my heart, waiting for an answer and listening on how to provide my family with the support they need. We unfortunately, have had to deal with two major situations in our family in these past weeks. The church has been my place to go and just vent and pray. And as always, God has helped me to be patient and given me the strength I need to endure. There is a bright, hopeful light at the end of this dark tunnel. We will I am convinced, come out better people. Thank you all again for your support and keeping the church open for us all. Stay well everyone!”
So, how are you (and your family) keeping the faith in time of coronavirus? Let’s hear from you!