If today was a normal day at Yale, you could probably find me studying at my favorite desk in the STM library. During the school year, I spend countless hours at STM as I go there nearly every day to pray, study, or simply hang out with friends. For me and many other students, STM has become a place of refuge amid the stress and craziness of life at Yale. 

However, in this time away from campus, I am reminded that STM is much more than what is located at 268 Park Street. Our Catholic community extends far beyond New Haven as we remain connected through prayer, love and faith. In today’s Psalm, we pray; “O Lord, my God, in you I take refuge.” For many of us, during this period of social distancing, our normal places of prayer and refuge are no longer physically available to us. Though the STM Chapel, library, and Golden Center are no longer a part of our daily routines, today’s readings remind us that God extends to each of us a sanctuary of His love and mercy.

During this Lenten season we are challenged to recognize God’s presence in new and different ways; whether that be by celebrating virtual Mass in our family living rooms or by praying the Rosary outside on a beautiful Spring day. Let us remember that though our prayer lives have been altered, they are not diminished. Despite the recent changes and uncertainties in our lives, Christ’s love for us remains constant, offering us peace and protection always. As we take refuge in Christ this Lenten season, let us surrender to Him our worried minds, our restless souls and our aching hearts.