Speaking Out

It has been over two months since the enacting of shelter-in-place and social distancing orders due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The coronavirus has forced us into new circumstances, going forward in an uncharted “new normal.”

Doubt in your religious beliefs is that uncomfortable topic no one wants to broach. So … let’s talk about it!

“In difficult situations, we are called to be holy,” said Cardinal Thomas Collins, the Archbishop of Toronto, during his homily on April 28.

Nearly a year ago, I began physical therapy for a medical condition. The need for it came at a difficult time as I was excited about starting a new job and moving out for the first time.

As a young person, finding love can be extremely hard. While Catholics have historically turned to St. Joseph for help in this matter, this revered saint is perhaps overlooked by today’s young people for the guidance he can provide to those looking for their future spouse.

Two of my grandparents have shown me by example what it looks like to live a life of true Christian values.

Our lives have changed drastically in the past month. In late February, we received ashes to mark the beginning of another Lenten season; now, we are deprived of visiting Church for Holy Week.

“You better not have any excuses for being bored.”

That was always my parents’ warning at the start of every summer as we had books, board games, bikes and other various activities to enjoy. What they really meant was for us to “take advantage of the situation and appreciate the present as much as possible because there might be something in the future that will make this a fond memory.”

These are stressful times. Hospitals are full, shops shut down, schools closed and Masses suspended indefinitely. All around the world, we’re urged to “flatten the curve” of COVID-19 by practising social distancing and self-isolation.

A year ago, I decided to take on a position at St. Michael’s Cathedral Basilica in Toronto as a part-time sacristan. I knew this role would present new priorities, but while on the job I aimed to maintain my involvement in youth ministry at my home parish, Vietnamese Martyrs, to the best of my abilities. At that time, I was a Grade 12 student, completing high school.