A message from the Most Reverend James A. Tamayo,

Bishop of the Diocese of Laredo

     Headlines of the negative impact COVID-19 has had on individuals, businesses, our economy, and our world at-large may lead you to question where God is. The world can seem so bleak and dark; but God is love, and He casts out all darkness. 

     We are still in the Easter Season, a time when the reminder of the Resurrection of Christ our Lord should lead to a spirit of joy even amidst all of the pain and suffering people around the world are enduring. As our hearts hurt for those who are sick and lonely and we mourn for all of the lives lost to the COVID-19 pandemic, and as we face very real struggles about our future, we must not stop seeking the light. 

     While our church buildings remain closed and parish activities that help keep our relationship with God thriving are temporarily suspended-all in an effort to help end this pandemic-let us remember that God is not confined within the walls of our churches. He is present in domestic churches-the church within our homes. God remains with us, and we must not allow ourselves to grow distant from Him.  

     God is in the doctors and nurses who risk their own health to help patients who are sick. He is in the teacher who loses sleep to plan lessons that will engage students through distance learning. God is in the helpful grocery store employees who work hard to make sure items are restocked quickly. Our Lord is in the people who strive to protect us upholding just laws. He is in the parents who create a peaceful home for their children in spite of the fears and anxieties this pandemic has caused. God is in every person who acts selflessly to serve their neighbor.

     Recognizing Christ in others, let us be moved to share His love with those we encounter. The Holy Spirit dwells within each of us. Let us ask Him to grant us the wisdom and courage to come to the aid of our fellow brothers and sisters beginning with lifting them up in prayer.  

     Jesus tells us in John 8:12 “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” 

     I encourage you to look with new eyes for the light in this world. Darkness tries to overshadow the light, but it cannot. Resolve daily to seek the light. For then you can go forth and bring the light of Christ to others.