When I applied to enter the seminary, I had interviews with professionals in the field of psychiatry, psychology, and public speaking besides the people of the diocese. One comment that the Director of Vocations asked: “Are you sure that you are not going to change your mind and become a monk rather than a diocesan priest.” Thus, evidence was there to have a tendency of tucking myself away into a life a prayer. I certainly recalled this as we experience social distancing or even isolation. It is not a secret that I am in a high risk group and my doctors affirm that reality. So, I have been praying more intentionally for all. We do have that part of the Mass where we mention our intercessions. When I do intercessory prayer, I find it hard to stop since there are so many needs and people to pray for. Community, families, national and international causes come to mind and heart. As I try to end I remind myself that God already knows our problems, concerns, and need. The content or structure of the Good Friday liturgy is one of the oldest. One key part is General Intercessions. Recall how the Deacon states an intention, we pause and then the priest leads the prayer. This year the Universal Catholic church has added one to overcome the coronavirus. I wanted to assure you that we are still in communion with one another in prayer and other ways.
We have become aware ourselves of some of the dynamics we are going through. A priest from Ireland pointed to what was verified by the Cathedral in Philadelphia: the very high number of people using their online prayer services. Another dynamic, people have offered to help one another. We have seen creativity in the number of ways to be present to one another even if not physically. We will become aware of parishioners and relatives of parishioners affected in tragic ways by this virus. We have increased awareness and prayers for the doctors, nurses, and other health care professionals especially those that belong to our parish community. As many have pointed out they are heroes.
God will deliver us as God led the chosen people of Egypt and out of slavery of various forms. Continue to be the best version of yourself. I thank you for all that you are doing and for all your prayers.
Christ be with you,
Bill Graney