A call to deeper communion with God and others

We are living through some very difficult and challenging days.  I know that many people are anxious and even fearful with the concerns and effects of the corona virus as it continues to affect the lives of a growing number of people. We are reminded in times like this of the fragility of human life and the bonds of solidarity that we share with all of our brothers and sisters around the world.  We must all heed the precautions and restrictions mandated by our government leaders, as well as those given to us by Bishop Zubik and the Church.    We want everyone to be safe and are particularly mindful of those who are most risk, especially the elderly and those with underlying health conditions.  It is painful and difficult for many of us not to be able to attend Mass and to receive the Sacred Body and Precious Blood of our Savior.  But these are extraordinary times.  Perhaps the things we take for granted will become more treasured and precious to us now that they are not readily available.  But this is a time that God invites us to deeper faith and stronger communion with the Church and others.  Our sufferings and sadness can be joined to the Cross of our Savior whose Passion and Death on the Cross redeemed the world and mankind.  This is what Lent is all about.  We have the opportunity in these days to draw even closer to Our Lord and the Church.  Read the Scriptures; pray the rosary at home with your family; fast and sacrifice for your sins and the sins of others.  We live with the constant hope of the power of God’s saving love that has triumphed already over sin and death.  God never abandons us. He is close to especially in times of trial and darkness.  We are invited to enter spiritual communion in these times where we are unable to receive Holy Communion.  Draw close the Lord in prayer and draw closer to others in charity.  These are the lasting bonds of faith and love that will never disappoint and lead us to eternal life.  In this moment, it is important for us to anchor our hearts in the hope that we have in Jesus Christ. Now is the time to intensify our prayers and sacrifices for the love of God and the love of our neighbor. Let us draw closer to one another in our love for him, and rediscover the things that truly matter in our lives.