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Eucharist in the Time of Corona
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October 31, 2021All Saints DayToday is All Saints Day, one of my favorite celebrations of our catholic faith! We are reminded of our call to holiness and sainthood. We are all invited to be holy, being created in the image and likeness of our God. We belong to the Kingdom of God. I remember a favorite song I used to sing in the choir, “Blessed are they” by David Haas. The refrain sums up this day for me as I live through this time of the pandemic of COVID-19 which has changed our world and the way we live today.Covid has weighed me down with the loss of loved ones who have died from this deadly virus. It has limited being present to my family and friends. I was not able to attend funerals in person, not able to comfort others with a hug. I am limited in doing my work by not being able to travel or gather. I wear a mask and wash hands to protect myself and others. I participate in virtual meetings and calls for my work and studies. I know people who have lost jobs and are having financial struggles. This year my 12-year-old daughter caught COVID-19 from school. My wife and I feared losing her; however, she was able to overcome this virus and is now fully vaccinated.Lord where do we go from here? The beatitudes remind us that God has not abandon us and loves us all. “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted” (Matthew 5:4) . God is with us and calls us to be holy. We are the children of God. Covid time is an invitation to pray and reflect on how God has been present in our life experiences. As we are compassionate and walk with others who are suffering, may we allow God to comfort and heal us. Today let us welcome his divine presence in our daily life experiences, as we sing:“Rejoice and be glad! Blessed are you, holy are you! Rejoice and be glad! Yours is the Kingdom of God!” Amen.