Dear Parishioners,
As you know, for the past
weeks I have been living in isolation to be available to the sick and the dying
during this Covid-19 pandemic. This has been an edifying experience for many
reasons. Firstly, I was able to speak with and offer God’s consolation to
several people who are suffering during this time. I also learned a valuable
lesson, namely, that we, the Church, have quite a bit of work ahead of us regarding
evangelization and promotion of the sacraments. Of course, our beloved medical
professionals have wanted to keep everyone as safe as possible since the
beginning of this pandemic. As a result, only those who are considered essential
have access to Covid-19 units in hospitals. Unfortunately, the Church has not
been considered, across the board, as ‘essential’ at this time. Despite many
efforts to gain access to Covid-19 units where I might bring the Anointing of
the Sick to Catholic patients in need of this Sacrament, access was often
denied. While this primarily speaks to the concern of our health professionals
for the safety of priests and other visitors, it also reveals a lack of
understanding of just how important the Sacraments are. As a result of the lack
of access to hospitals as well as the anticipation of the ‘re-opening’ of the
liturgical life of the parishes of the Archdiocese of New York, Father Michael
and I have decided that it would be best if I return to St. Columba at this
time. However, I urge you, whenever you or someone you love needs the Sacrament
of the Anointing of the Sick, please do not hesitate to call! Your priests are
happy to answer the call to bring you Christ’s healing touch in the sacraments!
Given current restrictions, this should take place before entering the
hospital. I look forward to seeing you all as soon as possible! Be assured of
my prayers and please pray for me!
In Christ,
Father Connolly
