After over a week of quarantine,  my Covid-19 test result came back negative. While it was a relief, a huge load taken off my shoulders, it was in no way an occasion to rejoice as we are still in the middle of this devastation, still suffering the onslaught of the unforgiving raging enemy. I’m concerned with the many parishioners (families and individuals) who are currently hurting because of Covid-19 especially those in the ICU's with no visitors allowed. Those of us who have been exposed, quarantined, shielded and tested, the experience is mutual. Now I can relate to the increased level of stress associated with sheltering in place. It hit home. We are in solidarity with those who bear the burden of the moment. We empathize with them even though we don’t exactly know what they are facing. We can’t imagine the stress of living with someone battling with Covid-19. Life in isolation may have been staycation, a much-needed time for R&R (at home) but for the most part, it was a rude awakening. We are facing an invisible enemy, beyond borders and bullets. Our only option is to work together so that this unimaginable crisis may be quickly put behind us. Quarantine life afforded me an enormous time to pray for deliverance for all of us who courageously put our lives on the line: priests, deacons, parish staff, liturgical ministers, super-volunteers, beloved parishioners of the Douglas-Pirtleville nation and beyond. While in isolation, I also spent a great deal of time cleaning the house which obviously included mixing solutions for sanitation, sweeping and mopping the floor which I found rather enjoyable. Since I didn't have much to do, I tried to cook dishes only God knows where the recipes came. Staying home was in a way beneficial for introspection but after the negative result, it was time for me to minister again.

We pray for the eternal repose of the souls of the parishioners who recently passed away and offer condolences, sympathy and consolation to the grieving families, relatives and friends. Rest assured, they are included in the prayers of the gathered community.

Eligio Estrada Ortega, Pedro Parra, Maria Romero Tarazon, Manuel Samaniego

Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord and let perpetual light shine upon them. May they rest in peace. May their souls and the souls of all the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in peace. Amen.