Lenten Pandemic
One Lenten Season in my life, during February to March 2020, stands out as both my most meaningful and challenging experience.
While churches prepared with the usual purple and ash colors of Lent, a new virus appeared and deeply affected my spiritual life. I was not alone in this experience—many people faced similar fears and losses as the pandemic infiltrated our community. COVID-19 spread worldwide, bringing fear and impacting millions. This happened just as we were preparing for Easter, pushing me to come together with others, reflect, and offer support. Even though it was hard, this time showed me how strong we can be and how important community is during discouraging moments.
Was it just a coincidence or a clash? Many who lost loved ones to the virus would say this question doesn’t matter. But I believe the Virus was a distractive evil. COVID-19 changed my ministerial life, making in-person meetings, faith formation, and simple social moments almost impossible. At times, it felt like a quiet pause in my faith life. Still, during that Lenten Season, I found myself contemplating the Paschal Mystery—the suffering, death, and resurrection of Jesus—and how it relates to what we’re going through.
The Paschal Mystery guided me through these uncertain times. Lent during the pandemic became a spiritual journey without the usual church ministry. The quarantine gave me more time to pray, reflect on scripture, and look inward. As I studied the story of Jesus’ Passion, I found new meaning. It reminded me that Jesus’ suffering and resurrection invite me to show mercy and accept discomfort. By giving up my usual comforts, I made room in my heart for Jesus and for others, growing stronger and more resilient.
Did COVID-19 disrupt my Lent? No. It was a time filled with fear and uncertainty, but it also pushed me to respond with love. I connected more with strangers in an empty church, with returning parishioners, and faced the unknown with care, especially for those suffering and feeling hopeless because of the virus. I accepted the pain of loss by being present—listening, praying, offering hope, and bringing light to dark times.
In the story of The Passion, Simon stands out to me as someone who showed love for Jesus by helping carry the cross (Lk. 23:26). Simon of Cyrene’s humble, serving attitude inspires me to act kindly during hard times. He stepped forward when others rebuked Jesus. His example of humility, service, and love motivates me to do something meaningful this Lent to support those who are sick and grieving—something lasting, not just a forgotten promise.
How can we support each other during ongoing hardships?
What specific actions did you take to help others during that Lenten season?
Reach out in the comments below.
Silence by Shusaku Endo offers a thoughtful look at suffering. It’s a great book to read during the Lenten Season.
