Hope in Times of CrisisCourse Level: Basic

In its magnitude, the Covid-19 pandemic has overwhelmed us all and the world as we work around the clock to seek answers.  Its repercussions have shaken the very pillars of human society and culture which we see and follow in the media. In fact, such a moment of crisis creates its own panic and fear, justifiable or unjustifiable. But for the Christian, crisis is not the end of human aspiration which is truly and fully realized in the redemption of Christ. So, in the face of crisis, we take courage in the hope that the Lord will redeem us. In the light of Christian hope, we draw inspiration from the early Christian practice of fellowship which bonded our forebears (as demonstrated in the acts of the Apostles) both spiritually and materially; they held on to one another in faith and material support to overcome the adversities of their days. In much the same way, Christians are going to pull through this crisis, holding on to one another in faith and material support and knowing very well that kindness to one is kindness to all and vice versa.  It was perhaps providence that propelled The Holy Father Pope Francis to invite us to return to the reading of scripture early this year, as he instituted the Sunday of the Word of God, (Aperuit Illis).

This e-seminar is designed to draw our attention to our humanity, and its fullness which is realized in Christ.  It calls for reflection on who we are as a people, and our relationship with the other.  Compelling us to bond together amid fear and panic, and other forms of human crises, our hope in the Lord becomes the guiding light.  In as much as there is unity in strength, there is always hope in the face of the unknown because Christ stands with us. “Our help is in the name of the Lord who made heaven and earth.” (Ps.124:8)

Successful completion of this course earns 1.5 CEU's. Click here for more information about CEU's.

• Have better appreciation of humankind as one race
• Be familiar with Church documents that address the current coronavirus crisis, and how to cope with the situation
• Reflect on the Church’s call for universal care and love for one another
• Apply the theological virtues to practical ways of living in the middle of crises

• No books required. All readings are online.

• Week 1: Tangible Faith
  • Grasp a deeper insight of the Church’s understanding of Faith
  • Make an effort to apply the tenets of faith to practical living
  • Learn from models of Christian Faith/Hope/Love
• Week 2: Practicality of Hope
  • Grasp a deeper insight of the Church’s understanding of Hope in crisis.
  • Apply the tenets of our faith to practical living situations of hope in times of crises
  • Learn from models of Faith/Hope/Love
• Week 3: Unconditional Love
  • Grasp a deeper insight of the Church’s understanding of Universal Love
  • Apply the tenets of our faith to the practicality of loving one another (especially in times of crises)
  • Learn from models of Faith/Hope/Love