COVID spike is a challenge, but we must unite

We’re now in the latest battle with another spike in COVID-19 cases. How does that affect ministry in archdiocesan schools and parishes?

We had hoped by now that we would be beyond COVID-19 and wouldn’t have to deal with the Delta variant, but that’s not the case. That requires us as people in ministry to make adaptations in our schools, parishes and other ministries in order to do what we can to not spread the virus. First of all, I would like to extend my thanks to all of our clergy, religious and lay leaders for all they have done throughout the pandemic to continue our ministry, which is the fostering of God’s kingdom among us in this very difficult time. There has been a great deal of creativity, dedication and pastoral care displayed. Our priests and parish leaders have continued to offer the liturgy every day and have done their very best to accommodate people’s needs. The latest restrictions involve us wearing masks, and I would hope that people would adhere to this in our churches because of the Delta variant. Unless there is a medical reason, people should feel a responsibility to wear a mask for their own sake and for the good of others. I, as well as many others, have noticed that masks are not comfortable, and we can complain about them. But they have become a necessary part of our daily routine, and I suggest that we make the sacrifice and perhaps not even complain about it and wear the mask for safety.

What about the vaccine?

We do encourage people to be vaccinated – realizing that there are some who will object because of conscience – and we want to honor that conscientious objection. Nonetheless, in general, we are asking people to be vaccinated and to do so in a spirit of self-protection and care for others. I think, in a particular way, about the creativity the teachers in our Catholic schools and religious education programs have displayed in offering education at a challenging time. We are striving to have our children in school. Some parishes have begun new models of religious education and RCIA that have been very successful, and I salute those who have shown such initiative, holding some classes virtually. This present situation should not stop people from being invited to enter the Catholic Church. I also affirm our youth ministers who have done their very best to keep our young people safe and also to help them stay together. I give thanks to God every day for those who are involved in ministry who go the extra mile or two now to work beyond the pandemic and to make sure that witness to Christ continues. I also want to thank parents who care for their children by keeping them safe and having them vaccinated when possible. Our medical professionals, first responders and teachers have been true heroes. Like many of you, I am tired of the pandemic being a sign of division and choosing sides to demean one another. We need to stop name-calling and work toward unity and safety.

There have been some major in-person events in the archdiocese that have been canceled by the latest COVID spike.

Yes, we have had to postpone our local version of World Youth Day – the NOLA Catholic Youth Conference – and also the Gulf Coast Faith Formation Conference and our Louisiana Priests’ Convention. The priests’ gathering was scheduled for next month. We just felt it would be prudent to delay that conference until 2022. I pray that we all will do whatever we can on a personal level to reverse this latest spike in COVID-19 so that we can return to more normal routines in the near future. In the meantime, I pray that we will be united in charity and united in caring for each other. Our Lady of Prompt Succor, hasten to help us!

Questions for Archbishop Aymond may be sent to [email protected].