pandemic

One year into the COVID-19 pandemic, Bishop Thomas J. Olmsted of Phoenix has written a pastoral letter to the faithful aimed at bolstering faith in the Real Presence in the Eucharist.

This includes faith formation and sacramental preparation gatherings, youth gatherings, board and council meetings and organizational meetings.

This week, people on the front lines of dealing with COVID-19 — teachers, administrators, law enforcement and medical workers — have had two virtual opportunities to share their experiences, from sorrow and grief to goodwill and laughter, thanks to an initiative of Christ our Light Parish in Princeton and Zimmerman.

The Vatican began vaccinating its employees and residents against COVID-19 Jan. 13, giving priority to its health care workers, security personnel, employees who deal with the public and older residents, employees and retirees.

The suspension of in-person gatherings and activities in the Diocese of St. Cloud due to COVID-19 will continue until at least Feb. 1, Bishop Donald Kettler reiterated in a Jan. 6 letter to pastors.

Despite the absence of Pope Francis at the final liturgy of the year, Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re read the pope’s remarks urging people to find meaning in the pandemic.

Churches are invited to ring bells at noon Dec. 30, during the octave of Christmas, to remember and honor the more than 336,000 people who have died in the United States from COVID-19.

Bishop Donald Kettler is continuing the suspension of in-person social activities and other gatherings in parishes until at least Feb. 1, he notified pastors in a letter Dec. 18.