ST. ANDREW THE APOSTLE

GIVING BLOOD AT A DISTANCE:

BEING CATHOLIC AND SHELTERING IN PLACE

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“For this reason I say to you, do not be worried about your life, as to what you will eat or what you will drink; nor for your body, as to what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air, that they do not sow, nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not worth much more than they? And who of you by being worried can add a single hour to his life?” (Matthew 6:25-27)

It is so easy to get caught up in the ever-changing news and not begin to become anxious. What we saw last week like running to the grocery stores and hoarding everyday items might seem like a normal response. Matthew's Gospel reminds us not to be worried… “And who of you by being worried can add a single hour to his life?” So one might ask, ‘what should we be doing?’

"So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do everything for the glory of God. Avoid giving offense, whether to Jews or Greeks or the church of God, just as I try to please everyone in every way, not seeking my own benefit but that of the many, that they may be saved."

(1 Corinthians 10:31-33)

There are many things we can be doing to help others in this crisis. Last week I took the time to go give blood. Yes, Hoxworth is still open and is in need of donors. The Hoxworth center showed that much care was taken to insure a totally safe environment. Sanitation was amped up and all of the workers wore PPE, personal protective equipment. It felt good not to give into the panic but instead think of a need and fill it. Looking across the room I saw another Saint Andrew parishioner,
a young adult, taking the time to do the same. It brought a smile to my face. Giving blood takes no effort and is so necessary more now than before. Many regular donors may have given into the panic and are simply not giving. It seems to me giving blood is something that can’t be suspended like many other aspects of life. So how do we, “not seek our own benefit, but seek the benefit of the many?” It’s time to do spring yard cleaning. Maybe checking in with an elderly neighbor to help
them with their yard. Do you know of someone who shouldn’t be going out to the store? Give them a call to see if they need something while you’re out, then leave it on their front porch. Or maybe bake or cook a little extra, sharing what you have with others.

There are so many ways we can reach out and touch others, all the while maintaining a distance. After all we are called to seek the good of others always, maintaining our Catholic identity even as we shelter in place.

Kathy Bitzer

Associate of Religious Education