Pastors' Quandary

I would hate to be a pastor during these days of COVID 19. They face the clamor of those who want the churches to offer Masses again and those who think it is still unsafe. Bishops also need to balance reasonable religious policies with their own state's legislation. There is no previous map to follow, so it is better to heed the direction of doctors and scientists who have the most expertise about the danger of spreading the virus.

Many Catholics are attending Masses streamed in from various churches via computers or IPads or TV. Some feel more comfortable not having to dress up and sit in uncomfortable pews so they like staying at home. Some miss receiving Communion. Others miss connecting with their friends and neighbors at their parish church.

Some parishes are reinstituting Masses but allowing only a small percentage of attendants to keep six feet distancing. Smaller parishes have less of a problem than large city ones.

It doesn't look like we'll be returning to the old normal any time soon, so this transitional period may be stormy and bumpy. Pastors will have to allow for a wide range of responses during this time, especially if a new wave of the coronavirus hits the U.S. in late summer or fall.

It is a good time to remember that God dwells in us and we can be Eucharist for each other. We nourish one another with our prayer, service, care-giving, and love. We are Christ for all we meet and with whom we make community.