Missing Mass . . .

I can't remember the last time I missed Mass on a Sunday. I am not saying this in a bragging way or to show how "holy" I am. I am saying this to demonstrate how integral mass is to myself and many other Catholic Christians. For the devout, it is part of our week and our most important prayer. Through it, our souls are fed and strengthened. It is key to our ongoing mission.

I am not writing this to voice dissent about the Colorado Archbishops' decision. Archbishop Samuel Aquila spoke well in his video explaining the Church's decision in Colorado. He explained that we are practicing charity and prudence by trying flatten the curve, slowing the spread of this disease. As a member of their flock, I respect and will follow their decisions. However, this is still a great blow for us- a cross to bear. I will endeavour to explain some concerns that I have as well as some things that give me hope.

1. Fear spreads fear- I know we why we are doing what we are in our country right now, but it is easy to see how much fear is on the rise. Fear itself is natural, but left unchecked, it can grow in society until people begin to act irrationally. Each new closure and change, rather than leading to rational thoughts and decisions, leads to ramping up our fears. Fear can prevent us from doing what we should. It can prevent us from being faithful. This is why the Bible has the phrase "Be not Afraid" more than any other phrase.

2. Spiritual health is not less important than Physical health. Living out our sacramental life is key to our Spiritual health, which is vital to our lives on earth as well as our eternal lives. While missing mass in this circumstance is not a sin, it doesn't help people live out their sacramental life and get spiritual food for the tough journey ahead.

3. Stopping the public mass sets a bad precedent. I am concerned that now we have made this decision, it will be a slippery slope with each new scare until It is a commonplace occurrence. It also sets a bad precedent for our children who may not see the rational reasons why closures are happening and think that mass attendance isn't important since we are willing to forego it. This is especially true to children who are too young to see the evidence of the pandemic.

Things that give me great hope:

1. The mass continues. Even though we aren't able to attend, our priests and religious will continue to offer mass and prayers for us. Private masses for funerals and weddings may still be available, depending on the the local parish.

2. While technological methods of gathering as a flock is a sorry substitute to actually gathering- we are after all a gregarious species- it is still an option to most of our parishioners.

3. As of right now, we can still go into our churches. Just to sit with the Lord in silence will be a great blessing for many. We can offer our grief and our struggles to the Lord. We can still praise his Holy name.

4.  The Archbishop reassures us that the sacraments are still readily available. So, please, if you need anointing of the sick, contact your local parish. If you need to go to confession, also call your parish office to arrange a time. Your local priest will be extremely willing to work with you to help with your spiritual needs at this time!

5. Life is hard. This time is hard, but it isn't the first time humanity has faced a pandemic or other catastrophe (see these very apt words written by CS Lewis) The Lord will be with us during our struggles and isn't held back from blessing us and acting in our lives because of our current circumstances. Keep praying for and helping one another!