We live in unusual times. Few of us in the English-speaking world have lived through something like the COVID-19 pandemic, and we’ve all had to change the way we live our lives. The way we pray has changed too. Our bishops have prudently instructed us to stay home.
Praying at home, like a lot of things about this pandemic, can be very challenging. But our bishops have also reminded us of our Church’s unique history of persevering and praying through difficult times. The Euromaidan Revolution and the underground Church were difficult, tragic, and painful. But their lessons, perhaps, provided *better* ways of getting the self-sacrificial Christian message out to people than what we’re used to.
During the Euromaidan, people from all over the world Skyped in with words of encouragement, and to read excerpts from the Gospels. During the underground Church, most people heard and shared the Gospel at home.
In crisis, we saw positive innovation, a regard for what’s important, and an understanding for what’s not. This pandemic is one of those times — a time to do better, reach more people, and a time to innovate despite this virus’ mortal evil and humanity’s social injustice.
Most people were home during Holy Week 2020. More than ever, it was a time to fully appreciate Christ’s sacrificial love. That is, to hear *every word* of the Passion narratives, and what it meant for Christ to save us at great pain, suffering, and personal cost to Him.
So on the evening of Holy Thursday and morning of Good Friday on the Gregorian Calendar, 20 people in 6 time zones, 5 countries, and 3 continents sheltering at home, joined the St. Mary of Egypt Social Justice fellowship to read the 12 passion gospels. Watch the live-streamed service below: