David G Bonagura, Jr., on Masked Faces and the Holy Face

"The news ripped through my computer like an electrical shock. In the midst of the lockdown, through my parish's daily Mass uploaded to YouTube, the father of a former student was announced among the sick in need of prayers. A few days later, I learned in the same manner that Joe Senior had died. I sought in vain to find news; there was no wake, funeral, or public obituary, and my inquiry to the parish went unanswered. I knew Joe Senior from the four years I taught his son; the two even shared the spoils of their hunting trip with my family so many years ago. My heart ached for both of them, and for Joe's wife, whom I also got to know.

"A few weeks later, as I assisted with seating for Sunday Mass (at 25 percent of church capacity), in walked Joe Junior with his mom. My eyes locked on hers, and I felt my face curl in sympathy. Yet my expression went unanswered, or so it seemed. A mask concealed my face from her, and hers from me. We could not embrace. I attempted to express my sorrow and learn what happened, but it was impossible to do so behind the voice-muffling mask. The strip of cloth that was protecting our health was, at the same time, sickening our souls. The masks created an awkward and painful moment.

"This is not an argument against wearing masks to prevent the spread of coronavirus. We must do what we must do. . . ."

In a recent commentary, writer/professor David G Bonagura, Jr., reflected on masks in the time of COVID-19 and on Veronica wiping the face of Jesus during His passion.

To access Mr. Bonagura's complete post, please visit:

The Catholic Thing: Masked Faces and the Holy Face (8 JUL 20)