Quarantine and Devotion

By Kelby Tingle Quarantine and Devotion

Throughout my first several months of living and studying in Rome at the North American College, I often enjoyed walking to St. Peter’s Square and gazing at the breathtaking Basilica, which rests upon the bones of St. Peter. While standing in the center of the square, near the ancient obelisk, I was always intrigued by the lively atmosphere as tourists and pilgrims filled the square to set their eyes upon the architectural masterpiece that represents so much of our Catholic faith. It seemed natural to hear many different languages spoken and to see families and groups gathering.

It is for this reason that I was startled when I walked past the Basilica of St. Peter in early March as Italy was first experiencing the devastating effects of COVID-19 and noticed that the square that was beloved to me was completely deserted. In my mind, I could not have imagined this site so still and eerily quiet at any time of the day, but much less on a sunny afternoon. The absence of the Basilica’s visitors signaled a dilemma and a disruption of a sense of normalcy. However, these sentiments were not only that of Vatican City on that specific day; rather, it is representative of a reality that has become ours due to the spread of the virus, which has not only drastically altered how we interact with one another and our day-to-day routine, but has also impacted us spiritually.

Two weeks into a strict nation-wide lockdown implemented by the Italian government, the North American College decided that it was most prudent for the seminarians to return to their respective dioceses in the United States. Upon my arrival in Shreveport, it was necessary for me to complete two weeks of a self-isolated quarantine. On March 27th, within the first days of my quarantine, I was once again moved at the sight of St. Peter’s Square, although this time looking on from my laptop. However, this day the Square was not completely empty as the Holy Father stood there in the rain with the crucifix of San Marcello and the icon titled “Proctress of the Roman People,” both associated with the Roman people’s prayer to God during times of great distress. The Holy Father

offered the Urbi et Orbi blessing and reflected on the story of Christ calming the storm, found in the Gospel of Mark. Throughout his reflection, the Holy Father continuously presented Christ’s question to His disciples: “Why are you afraid? Have you no faith?” He encouraged the world during this time of trials and suffering to recognize that the Lord is calling us, people of faith, towards a greater conversion to God and to realize our need for Salvation.

Throughout my quarantine and the difficulties associated with this time, I was continuously reminded of the Holy Father’s message, a message of hope. There were certainly days where I missed the seminary community that I had grown accustomed to spending time with. Even more so, it was saddening to be unable to attend the Holy Mass and receive the Sacraments. However, I was reminded once again that I am being invited to grow ever closer to Him. Even though it may seem that as all has been turned on its side, it is especially crucial during this moment that we entrust our self to the mercy and will of God. As people of faith, we know that God brings good from suffering and we can have confident hope that He will do so even with this pandemic.

As a man studying for the priesthood, I was inspired by the leadership and pastoral care of the priests, who had to discover new ways of ministering to their flock. How challenging I imagine it was for the faithful of the Catholic Church to be absent from the Sacraments during the holiest week of the liturgical year and from Easter, the highest solemnity. However, let this not diminish the Easter joy that the Church celebrates! There is always hope and cause for celebration in the Resurrection of the Lord! During this Easter Season it is important for us to remain united in prayer. I am praying for the faithful of the Diocese of Shreveport and I ask that you all continue to pray for an end to the virus and for those who have suffered its effects.