I am here in our church, in the presence of God with our deacons, to offer this Mass for everyone, especially for our parishioners. The whole world is spinning around the fear, anxiety and concern of Coronavirus, as it has become the center of gravity in our lives.

In the world, more than 297,000 people have been infected; over 12,000 people have been killed while some 94 ,000 have recovered. In the United States, 22,000 cases and 278 deaths have been reported. In Connecticut the number of confirmed cases are 194 with 4 deaths.

Uncertain about the right vaccine and duration of this crisis; anxiety arising from limited travel, scarcity of basic necessities, financial crisis, temporary closing of churches for worship and so on are casting shadows of doubt in ourselves and our human structures.

As we are reduced to such a hopeless situation, can you still hear the words, “Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest.” Can you listen to a longing soul, “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.”

Jesus says, “I came into this world for judgment, so that those who do not see might see, and those who do see might become blind.” In today’s gospel, a blind man received sight and he ended up in belief. But some stubborn people due to disbelief became like blind.

The gospel sheds light on the seemingly hopeless situation we are in now. This pandemic may turn many into the blindness of fear, apathy, mistrust and hopelessness. They might end up in self-pity, turn away from the church, apathetic to neighbors and even lose trust in God’s providence.

But the same crisis may open the eyes of many to see the light – the light of inner strength, trust in the capacity of the medical field, help the needy with empathy and come closer to God in confidence.

Faith matters; belief is a must.

From the sanctuary of God, I appeal to you: Fear not! restore inner strength, come close to God, be in touch with members of your family and your parish family through social media, wish everyone a healthy day, read the word of God, watch the Holy Mass and other spiritual events and pray for the end of this pandemic.

Soon this crisis will be gone; global heath will be restored; churches will be open and we will celebrate together our spiritual and social life. May God bless you and keep you in good health of mind and body!