Drastic times around the globe permit helpful measures by Catholics, who are offering services to all those on lock-down.
Whether it is virtual Masses, adoration, prayers or free Lenten meditations, here are some ways the quarantine can be lived faithfully.
1. VATICAN
Pope Francis is setting the example with his virtual daily Masses, weekly General Audience and Sunday Angelus. He engages Catholics around the world with his messages and daily prayer intentions, which can all be found on Rome Reports' website.
2. MASSES
Likewise, priests and bishops are following suit by live-streaming their Masses. Various dioceses are posting the Eucharistic celebration, led by their priests, but there are also outlets offering more.
For example, CatholicTV has daily Mass, the readings of the day, prayers and an archive of past Masses in both English and Spanish.
The Catholic Information Center in Washington, D.C. posts their daily Mass, Adoration and Rosary on their YouTube channel.
The Jesuit Community in Spain are also posting their daily Masses, and have created a new hashtag #encasaconDios or “at home with God” in English.
3. NEWS
Rome Reports continues to offer breaking news, straight from Rome, giving updates on how the pope is encouraging faithful virtually, as the coronavirus is plaguing the country.
For up-to-date, Catholic-based coverage, the Diocese of Brooklyn, New York's Currents News is the place to go. Not only do they offer information on the coronavirus in the United States, but share election news and Catholic-centered stories for viewers.
4. PRAYER
Praymorenovenas.com is offering a novena that begins March 20 for an end to the coronavirus pandemic. The prayers are posted on their website, for everyone to follow along.
The Magnificat, a book containing daily readings, prayers and reflections is being offered free for the month. It is available in English and Spanish.
5. RETREATS
An online conference launches Friday, March 20, called Be Not Afraid. It provides participants with daily inspiring content straight to their email in order to confront this difficult time.
While group activities and going out are being limited this Lent, it is the perfect time to step up one's prayer routine and pray for a conversion of hearts, as well as an end to the global coronavirus pandemic.
Melissa Butz
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