A Test of Faith

   Public celebration of Mass has been suspended until further notice.  I fully expected this to happen in my hometown since it has already been happening all over the country.  I am disappointed that I will be unable to attend daily and Sunday Mass as normal, but I understand the need to do our part in stopping the spread of Coronavirus.

   In this time of testing we have two choices.  We can let it upset us and maybe harm our faith life or we can be strengthened in our faith by seeking out ways to continue living our faith even though we can’t attend Mass in church.

   If we truly desire to worship God there are ways to continue in faith.  Simply doing an internet search for “Catholic Mass online” will provide any number of resources for Mass via the internet.  Mass at home is far better than no Mass at all.  The prayer for Spiritual Communion is no replacement for receiving the Blessed Sacrament but I believe Jesus still comes to me through that prayer.

   Satan will try to convince us that we should choose anger and despair.  He will tempt us to throw up our hands in defeat and just ignore our faith during this period.  On the other hand, the Holy Spirit will urge us to find ways to be constant in faith.  He will guide us in our efforts to remain devoted, worshiping our Lord as we should.

   As always, the choices are ours.  I believe that we have a tremendous opportunity to please God by our efforts to maintain our worship and faith in this trying time.

Father our faith is sometimes tested.

Help us to look to You for guidance.

Strengthen our faith.

Help us to find You in all things.

Amen