As the pandemic winds down and we become vaccinated, this is an opportunity to come out of our caves and rejoin the parish in person with worship. There is no better image to remind us of this renewal than Jesus rising from the dead.
Psychologists tell us that for those who have been cooped up for the last year because of the virus, even receiving the vaccine does not allay fears of getting sick. Going out into public always involves some risk. Fortitude is the virtue that empowers us to overcome the paralyzing effect of fear. It does not mean that fear disappears, but that we face our fears and do not let them stand in our way.
It took courage for Jesus to embrace his cross and face his death. After the resurrection, his disciples needed courage to proclaim his resurrection in the face of opposition. Returning to in-person Mass is a frightening thing that requires fortitude, especially for those who have been in lockdown during the past year. If you have received your vaccine, I can think of no better time than Holy Week and Easter to begin in person worship.
- Fr. Travis