Weekly pandemic update from Mitch
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
If I were to write a book about this past week, the title would be "The Tale of two COVIDs." On one hand, many of our members age 70 and above are experiencing a sense of relief as most have received their first vaccination shot and some of have even gotten both. With these members, I have heard in their voices and seen in their faces a sense of relief.
In some ways we have lived with COVID-19 for enough time now that we have forgotten what it feels like to live free from the added stress of this pandemic. I have heard of members crying tears of joy upon getting vaccinated. If this was you, please know your parish is happy for you and we cannot wait to see you again.
For others in our parish, the tale has been somewhat different. We have had six whole families come down with the virus. For some, the recovery has been simple. For others, there have been hospitalizations, and still, for others, including a young person, there has been lasting and life-changing damage done. At times like this, I wish I could understand why COVID affects some so mildly and others so drastically. For some in our community, the experience has been truly awful. Please know if you are among this group, you are in my prayers.
Indeed, we currently have a tale of two COVIDs. In addressing this tale, I want to echo what was said at Coffee Hour this week. We are in the midst of a war. It is a war against disease. If you have been vaccinated, and you can help by volunteering at a vaccine location or by helping to get people signed up to be vaccinated, please do. Helping others during this time is one of the most Christian and patriotic things you can do. It is a way to be of service for the common good.
If you are waiting, please continue to keep your physical distance, keep your guard up, be careful. You have made it this far. Wear your mask, wash your hands, keep it up! I feel like the momentum for the vaccine distribution is picking up. Our common commitment to community safety is a real-life example of loving our neighbor as ourselves. In Christ,
Mitch+