Dear Seton Family,
This is a most difficult, troubling, and confusing time for us all. None of us have ever experienced anything like this and the lives of every person have changed so dramatically in a matter of days. While so much of our daily lives and routine have been altered, all of us still have a firm foundation that sustains us – our faith.
The first thing that I wish to say to you is resist any urge to panic. Yes, we need to be concerned and pay close attention to the sound advise of medical professionals and public health experts. But remember, panic and fear are not from God. Calm and hope are and we can always trust that God’s peace and presence are with us. God’s Sprit always bestows upon us courage and strength, consolation, inspiration, and tranquility.
So, trust in those voices that you hear not voices of fear and rumors that lead to panic. Jesus says many times in the scriptures: “Do not be afraid.”
This pandemic may be a long haul for all of us and sadly some of our friends and family may get sick and may die. We will do what we can to help others. We must take the necessary precautions and avoid being reckless and risk spreading the disease. We will be challenged at this time to carry out our Christian tradition of caring for the sick. I myself wonder how we will fulfill Jesus mandate to us in Matthew 25: “I was sick and you came to visit me.” I also know that the poor and homeless will probably suffer the most. Our society cannot forget them.
As our churches close, and all parish activities are cancelled, I know that we can become isolated, but it need not be so. Remember, the most important thing that we can do at this time is to pray. Our Masses will be live streamed each weekend. Our parish website is also offering many opportunities to stay spiritually connected and to pray with one another and to continue to grow in your faith. Remember our church is not a building. Jesus said, “Where two or three are gathered in my name, there I am in your midst.” (Mt.18:20). We can continue to stay connected with our faith.
Again, let us remember that God is always with us, especially with those who are sick.
I remember this past year when I was in the hospital for ten days, and alone a great deal.
I was given the grace to have a profound presence of God in my suffering. Jesus understands our suffering and accompanies us in the most intimate of ways. Remember when he was with us on the earth, he spent a great deal of time with those who were sick.
Go to him now in your prayer, and together with God’s help we will move through this time together.
Father Jim
