My dear friends
It’s been a few months since we last communicated with each other.The Corona virus has struck us in a big way, with lockdowns, curfews, SOPs from the Government, the list is endless.Apparently this is a repetition of a similar pandemic, last witnessed in the year 1918.As is evident, this pandemic has created havoc the world over with lakhs of people getting infected and the number of reported deaths rising alarmingly.It is anybody’s guess as to when a vaccine will be developed to fight this dreaded disease.All our day to day affairs have been totally unsettled and it is very hard to imagine how long this will last or what lasting changes it will bring to our manner of living in this world in the times ahead.One of the most disturbing effects of this virus has been the closure of our Churches,Temples, Mosques and other religious places and it is uncertain when they will be safe to re-open.Although all the Churches/Chapels are closed,we are fortunate to be able to have daily Masses on electronic media, the only negative aspect being the lack of opportunity for the laity to partake of the Holy Eucharist.Live and recorded Masses are available on various Channels and YouTube. Lately, even our Church has started streaming Sunday and daily Masses on YouTube.In these trying situations, one of the positives is that every home has an opportunity to be a Mini-Church, wherein all family members come together to pray and attend Mass, thereby strengthening the family bonds.We need to take the necessary precautions and pray to our Almighty God to protect us and bring an end to this pandemic.Let us also pray for the speedy recovery of all the effected people who are suffering in their homes or in hospitals and eternal rest for the unfortunate ones who have lost the battle with this virus.
I take this opportunity to wish one and all a very Happy Feast of the Assumption of Our Lady on the 15th of August, which also coincides with the Independence Day of India, completing 73 years as an independent nation.
Greetings and best wishes to you and your family.
Until we meet again, take care and stay safe!!
Felix Dias
–Editor–