The Primacy of the Spiritual and the Obligations of the Church: On the Suspension of Public Worship

October 27, 2020 | by Thomas Joseph White, O.P.

When we deliberate about how the Church, the state, various institutions, and all individuals should navigate the crisis of COVID-19, we are in fact deliberating about what ultimate common good we collectively belong to. Yes, we are called to protect our own bodily life and the lives of others, but we are also inclined by nature to participate in communities of friendship, extended family life, truth-seeking, meaningful work, gainful employment, liturgy, and contemplation.