HELP PRAY LOVE: 6 messages of Christian thought and action during COVID-19

by Theresita Joseph

Whilst many of us rang in 2020 full of anticipation for what the new year would hold, entering into a global pandemic of COVID-19 within 3 months was not what many of us had in mind.

The impact of COVID-19 may look different depending on where you are in the world, but for most of us in the UK, the last few weeks have seen the normality of life come to an abrupt stop. Daily news reports on the infectivity rate and death toll of COVID-19 have left many anxious, fearful and vulnerable, especially the elderly or those with existing health conditions. Social distancing and isolation are in full swing; most people are working from home, schools and universities are closing, and many public places are no longer accessible. Plans from calendars have been axed in an instant, from weddings, travel trips and graduations, with future events remaining on hold for the foreseeable future.

Whilst this period is undoubtedly frightening and upsetting, there are many things we can do and think to transform this time into one of charity, deeper faith, and personal growth. Below are 6 key ideas to put Christian teaching into practice, for yourself and those around you.

1) SELFLESSNESS AND CHARITY

“In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’” – Acts 20:35

First and foremost, the nature of this pandemic means that we each have a social responsibility to protect one another and prevent the spread of COVID-19. Even if we ‘feel fine’ and are confident in our own immune system; that may not be the case for someone else who is vulnerable, and so during this time we are called to sacrifice. Keep up to date with Public Health England (PHE) (1) and follow government guidelines; minimising infection spread by regular hand washing and social distancing is important, and will only work if we take it seriously.

Our fears of being under ‘lockdown’ should neither mean that we become selfish. My newsfeed over the past 2 weeks has been filled with descriptions of toilet paper, hand sanitiser and canned food selling out from the shops, and even worsening reports of paracetamol not being available for those that really need it, or masks being stolen from hospitals. This is not okay – and the message of ‘love thy neighbour’ is ringing out more clearly than ever before.

So – stop before you panic buy and think of what you really need. Use all items sparingly and not wastefully. Think of any neighbours in the area who may be housebound and can’t get to the shops, and see if you can offer some help. If you have extra food or household supplies, consider donating some to a local food bank. Those that are homeless also face a particularly challenging time, not only for their health, but in the face of uncertainty as shelters and soup kitchens close. If you know of any homeless shelters that are looking for extra support, see if you can reach out. To those you know in healthcare who will need to go to work over these next few months, see if you can help with any childcare facilities.

For more information on opportunities to help, COVID Mutual Aid UK is a volunteer group that has been set up to provide local mutual aid groups that provide help in regions across the UK (2). Using this time to help others will not only bring relief and gratitude to those that need it, but will remind you of Jesus’ message to see everyone as our brothers and sisters, and act as one.

2. KINDNESS OVER LONELINESS 

And when God had me wander from my father’s household, I said to her, ‘This is how you can show your love to me: Everywhere we go, say of me, “He is my brother.”’ - Genesis 20:13

Whilst everyone is being called to socially distance, some people will find this period more isolating than others. Many live alone, are separated from loved ones, struggle with their mental health, or are going through a particularly bad time on top of everything else.

In a world of social media, let's make sure we reach out far and wide to friends and family who we often don’t have the time to talk to but now do. Whether it is a text message, a phone call, a letter or a Skype conversation – keep connected with one another. Don’t wait for someone to reach out first – be proactive and make the first move.

If you are able to, find out from your local parish or SVP group for any members in your community who may also be isolated and be grateful for a call, or protected visit if possible/safe. A new app called Quarantine Chat has been created to help those experiencing loneliness while in isolation during the COVID-19 outbreak. By downloading the Dialup app, you can be subscribed to free periodic calls that randomly pair you with someone to talk to who is stuck at home (3). Whilst you may not know the other person on the other end, it is a beautiful initiative to bring human connection into a time of loneliness.

Never underestimate the impact of showing others you are thinking of them – now more than ever.

3. PRAYER AND FELLOWSHIP

“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances” -1 Thess 5:16-17

For many of us going through Lent, this current pandemic has escalated everything to the next level, that it feels like the whole world has joined in with us. It is also a time that may seem daunting for faith – earlier this week it was announced that public mass would no longer be available across England, Wales and Scotland. Whilst this is very sad - spiritual communion is still possible, and many churches are live streaming mass and adoration which can be followed at home (4,5).

In addition, this time is a powerful opportunity to grow closer to God in daily prayer, Bible reading, worship and reflection. Why not make a commitment during this period to say the rosary each day, or start a daily Novena, to pray for all those affected or fearful of our current pandemic? The Catholic bishops conference has put a series of prayer resources and novenas together to be used during this time (6). Even better - pray with friends and family who are isolating with you, or through video calls with those who you can’t be with, to witness to the power of community prayer and fellowship. At the end of this post, find a list of Youth2000 prayer intentions that you can pray through daily.

There are also many exciting Catholic and Christian creative streams during this time, and many members of Youth2000 are stepping up to do their part. On Tuesday we saw our first #WorshipatHome live stream by Calum and Joe, whilst our friends at Youth2000 Ireland live-streamed their prayer group. Others from Youth2000 have started other exciting projects - Isaac, Alex and Naz have set up a Lent in Isolation project (7), which will be sharing daily readings from each Holy Mass and spiritual guidance from a priest, whilst Rosie has started worship blogging through her time in the pandemic through 'Woodstock Worship' (8). There is also a Y2K #WorshipatHome Spotify playlist put together by our Music Ministry, so make sure you listen to that too if you need to be spiritually uplifted (9). 

Whatever you want to start and however you want to contribute during this time, Youth2000 remains an encouraging family to support you through it.

4. GRATITUDE AND THANKSGIVING

“So don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today’s trouble is enough for today” – Matthew 6:34

Whilst we have many things to pray about, we have as many things to be grateful for. These past few weeks have made me realise how fortunate we are to experience a life of ‘normality’ in a world of things ‘on-demand’. In our own little bubbles, our daily concerns revolve around being able to plan where to go, who to see, what to do; and it is only when all these things are taken away that we stop and think.

Let’s use this present moment to give thanks to God for everything we have already been blessed with. Right now, we should be especially grateful for our health, and for many of us thankful that we are able to isolate from COVID-19; with a home to go to and food to eat. Let us be grateful to have the NHS that is free and accessible at any point of service, and be thankful for all those who work for it, especially during this hard time. Let us be grateful for our jobs, our education, and all our enjoyments. Let us be grateful for the friends and family we have that love and support us during hard times. Let us be grateful for our church community and the teachings we have already received. 

Let us take each day as it comes, and trust in God’s love and protection.

5. CREATIVITY AND PERSONAL GROWTH

“I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well.” – Psalm 139:14

"I’d love to but I don’t have any time at the moment” How often do we say/hear this phrase in our day to day life? Often, it is the opportunities for personal growth that we say no to, perhaps for lack of self-belief or ability to prioritise ourselves.

So, for those of with more free time on your hands, use this period to fill your suddenly empty calendar with things that have been waiting for you – there is no excuse to be bored. Over the past few days, I’ve already heard brilliant ideas from friends, from enrolling in the British Sign Language Course (it is free to enroll on if you are under 18!) to taking up a new instrument or language. You could also take a more active role in your health; from eating healthier to making time for daily exercise. Read a new book, listen to a podcast or take up art that will open your eyes to a currently unexplored area. Be excited for what new lessons or skills you may come out of this period with – you may surprise yourself!

One good resource is the MARCH Network, which is a brilliant mental health network that has released a very useful Creative Isolation page, with several useful links/resources/activities that can help inspire you during this time (10).

6. HOPE AND POSITIVITY

 “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”- Philippians 4:6-7

Finally, whilst the next few weeks and months will likely remain a time of uncertainty, we can be confident in trusting that God is still walking with us through each day, and is still in control. Open your eyes to see the small everyday moments of His goodness, and pray through times when it still feels confusing. Reach out to others who will help keep you rooted in faith, and encourage others when they feel down.

Over the next few weeks, we would like to post #pandemicpostivity testimonials of positive action that is taking place during this current time on the Youth2000 page, to be a source of inspiration and hope to others. If you have something you would like to share that you’ve been a part of/seen/heard about during this current pandemic– please message us! We’d love to hear from you and spread the Good news! 

Hopefully this blog post has brought key messages and ideas to help you during this time. Find below the Youth 2000 prayer intentions, and useful resources mentioned in the post. Please share this post for those who you think would find it useful. God bless, and keep safe during this time 😊

USEFUL RESOURCES:

1. Up-to-date information on the Coronavirus situation in the UK from PHE - https://www.hse.gov.uk/news/coronavirus.htm
2. COVID Mutual Aid – this website provides details of different support groups setting up across the country which aim to support those who are more at risk from COVID19, from helping running errands to cooking: https://covidmutualaid.org/get-involved/?fbclid=IwAR3RE4znGr6i8Rx7YSf5LeKpw2AjrYAssVr0wbcJw-xh3of0pr8jbrgy8g8
3. Quarantine chat: https://quarantinechat.com/
4. Godzdogz: Useful blog post from the Dominican student brothers at Blackfriars, Oxford, containing a comprehensive list of links for mass/spiritual communion, daily mass readings, live streams of liturgy and prayer, and virtual retreats:  https://www.godzdogz.op.org/godzdogz/spiritual-resources-for-times-of-isolation?fbclid=IwAR3NCpUzjZW33icdf-vXyLe8ZVtTuDMbhoDW85SW94b-QPk2xmgYK8sSzjc
5. Westminister diocese resources during Mass Suspension: https://rcdow.org.uk/news/resources-during-mass-suspension/?fbclid=IwAR1E_xWzusSTbTHosfpMK7f3L-P7FuOiFbbzcKtB3TA4kOMWm3NhGAeU72
6. Prayer resources to use during the Coronavirus pandemic: https://www.catholicbishops.ie/2020/03/16/prayer-resources-for-use-during-the-coronavirus-pandemic/
7.  Lent in Isolation: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCH9jCvm2IGFI1oTaiGkEg5A
8. WOODSTOCK WORSHIP:  https://woodstockworship.wordpress.com/2020/03/19/session-02-only-you-i-dont-have-to-fear-joy/?fbclid=IwAR28eTRegkhbsFf5ZvIVUNdTFEmIfiSwepo1w6hjYTbuSeo6qn7DBS5PgiI
9. Y2K #WorshipatHome Spotify Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1BHfMfYCewhRAAM1HMfWrZ?fbclid=IwAR20I5O9hRkovCWAPGPox2jj9BMTyZFNGlGLM1jnOETClXJjwL8TM5B2Hig
10. MARCH Network: https://www.marchnetwork.org/creative-isolation?fbclid=IwAR0QboAnTT5DxPvzOk1MXwpSvJO7i5UVz-chD6kHL2_3oem1Tx408Xn1Yxo