“And this I know with confidence, that I shall remain and continue in the service of all of you for your progress and joy in the faith.” Philippians 1:25

Paul writes these hopeful words from prison. He does not know what the future holds. But he does know his mission.

I find his words resonating with me on this Halloween. At times the coronavirus has felt like a global prison. Likewise, we do not know what the immediate or long-term future holds, whether on a personal, political or epidemiological level. But our mission as Christians remains the same – to serve others to enable their progress and joy in the faith.

As I reflect in the coming days on holy saints and good souls, I will also thank God for the everyday saints who have responded to this pandemic: the healthcare workers who have tirelessly treated the sick and dying; the volunteers who have stepped up to feed the hungry, clothe the poor, and house the homeless; public health officials who have labored, often thanklessly, to limit the spread of the disease; the priests, chaplains, and ministers who have provided spiritual care for the sick and lonely; and the friends, relatives and neighbors who sustain community in this time of quarantine and isolation.

In humbling themselves, these ordinary saints are exalted. May God bless them, keep them, and sustain them in their labors, now and always.