The Information Secretary of the General OCD Curia has been made
aware of a great number of initiatives being carried out by the religious of the Order to address the COVID-19 crisis. Also, we have confirmed that some religious provinces and monasteries are directly suffering the consequences of the pandemic and, tragically, we have been notified of some deaths as well as problems caused by the illness. Many people and organizations are aiding our brothers and sisters, including financially, so that they may weather this time. Also, there is no lack of examples of solidarity between the many groups and among their members.
In the face of the pandemic, many communities of sisters around
the world are collaborating by making masks or protective clothing for the care givers who work in hospitals and geriatric facilities, as wells as for patients.
Furthermore, friars and monasteries in the Provinces have
developed innumerable pastoral initiatives, taking advantage of communications, especially social networks.
In addition, our brothers and sisters have not forgotten the
best way to fulfill their mission to serve the Church and humanity: embracing in prayer and the fraternal life the suffering and uncertainty that anguishes everyone, near and far; lending help to all to discover the Light that illuminates the darkness; sharing the hope that restores when we plunge into the mystery of communion with God.
Here at home, thanks be to God, no death or serious sickness has been reported.