While staying at home, the St. Charles Confirmation Candidates of 2020 have continued to prepare for the sacrament. Their latest assignment was to read the Gospel of Matthew and to reflect on it. One part of this work was to find a passage in the Gospel that would speak to having faith during our current crisis. Here are some of their thoughts:

Come to me,
all who labor and are heavy laden,
and I will give you rest.
Take my yoke upon you,
and learn from me;
for I am gentle and lowly in heart,
and you will find rest for your souls.
For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.
(Mt. 11:28–30)

I chose this passage because it shows how Jesus is always there for us to give us rest and to help us find peace spiritually, which can be incredibly helpful during times of hardship like this. –Nicholas N.

“Yes” he said
“you may well look at all these.
I tell you this:
not a single stone here
will be left in its place;
every one of them will be thrown down.”
(Mt. 24:1–2)

I chose this because it’s almost like he’s talking about us; as though we are the stones. Saying that everyone is and will be affected by what’s happening right now. And saying “Not a single stone will be left in its place” is a metaphor for how after everything, we won’t be the same but we will grow. –Lillianna I.

No one can serve two masters.
Either you will hate the one and love the other,
or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other.
You cannot serve both God and money.
(Mt. 6:24)

I chose this passage because it makes me think about our current situation. With our economy on pause, we’ve all had the luxury of spending more time with the people we love. It’s a reminder that ultimately, our connection to our community and to our beliefs is what’s truly important. –Emma S.

Blessed are the poor in spirit,
for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are those who mourn,
for they shall be comforted.
Blessed are the meek,
for they shall inherit the earth.
(Mt. 5: 3–5)

This quote is part of the Beatitudes. These three lines say that those who are struggling will eventually feel safety and comfort. In these difficult times, it is reassuring that people who are struggling will eventually be ok. –Madeline M.

All this I will give you,” he said,
“if you will bow down and worship me.”
Jesus said to him,
“Away from me, Satan!
For it is written:
‘Worship the Lord your God,
and serve him only.'”
(Mt. 4:9–10)

This relates to what is happening as of right now, as you have to resist the urge to leave the house and do certain things. –Rose A.