As we respond to COVID-19 as a ministry, we stand together in our commitment to our mission to be the compassionate presence of Jesus to one another. Jesus embodies God’s hope for the world. Hope is a virtue that allows us to live in anticipation of happiness in union with God and the realization of God’s reign of love. We can foster hope in our communities through leadership in promoting health.
Extending the compassionate caring of Jesus calls for hope.
“Hope is not Polyannaish optimism—the assumption that a positive outcome is inevitable.” Everett Worthington, “How Hope Can Keep You Happier and Healthier”
“Hope is the virtue of a heart that doesn’t lock itself into darkness, that doesn’t dwell on the past, does not simply get by in the present, but is able to see a tomorrow. Hope is the door that opens onto the future…A single individual is enough for hope to exist, and that individual can be you.” Pope Francis, “Why the Only Future Worth Building Includes Everyone”
“The ultimate goal of our care is to give to those who are ill, through our care, a reason to hope.” Cardinal Joseph Bernardin, A Sign of Hope
The Catholic Health Association invites reflection on hope:
Practices to Express and Deepen Hope in our Community
Participate in the Catholic Health Association’s advocacy efforts to promote health
Learn more from the Catholic Health Association about advocacy to promote health
Contact your representatives to advocate for legislation to promote community health
Encourage someone who is struggling in the community because of the pandemic
Call or text someone struggling because of isolation
Donate food to help people experiencing food insecurity because of the pandemic
Engage consistently in CDC practices to prevent the spread of COVID-19
Wash hands frequently
Maintain physical distance
Wear a mask at home and in public to deepen hope of preventing the spread of COVID-19
“Wearing a mask is about caring for your friends and neighbors and follows Christ’s simple commandment to love one another. It’s an easy, safe and effective way to protect everyone for the common good.” Sr. Mary Haddad, RSM, Executive Director of the Catholic Health Association