As we enter the green phase of the coronavirus pandemic recovery, I have reflected on the past few months.

I listened to stories of families torn apart by the death of loved ones. I observed individuals and groups display false bravado as they ignored expert scientific advice, claiming invulnerability to a disease that has no favorites and knows no borders. So far, more than 100,000 people in the U.S. have died — young, old, rich, poor, famous and not-so-famous — and so many more have been affected by the health and economic fallout of a virus only 125 nanometers in diameter.

But through all this, there have been goodness and careful, sound, prudent, thoughtful behavior. Nationally, there is Dr. Anthony Fauci’s voice of scientific reason that intelligently advocates for the physical health and safety of the country and formulates recommendations based on evidence, not conjecture. There are those who daily don and doff cumbersome yet essential protective gear as they perform emergency services and care for the critically ill in hospital wards and intensive care units.

And from a spiritual standpoint, many religious leaders have done a remarkable job in this most difficult time shepherding their congregations and instilling hope in times of hopelessness. They did not quarantine their time and effort or isolate themselves. They did not turn their backs on those who look to them for guidance.

Recently I saw a beautiful image of nearly 1,000 Muslims engaged in physically distant mass prayer in an IKEA parking lot in Germany. Leaders of the mosque organized this safe group prayer to mark the end of Ramadan.

Closer to home in the Diocese of Greensburg, religious leaders stepped up to the plate. Difficult early decisions were made that altered usual practices in order to protect the flock. I was saddened but in full agreement when public celebration of Masses was canceled in mid-March. I recognize how painful this decision must have been to make, especially as it included the Easter season, the most important time on the Christian calendar.

But without missing a beat, the diocese and parishes began to fill the void by focusing attention on the spiritual needs of parishioners in novel ways that could not and did not utilize face-to-face interactions. Daily and Sunday celebration of Mass was recorded and streamed online. Creative use of social media and technology enabled parishes to reach out to young and old alike.

In my parish, Mt. St. Peter Parish in New Kensington, and in the neighboring parishes of St. Mary of Czestochowa and St. Joseph, youth ministry meetings, book clubs, Bible studies, novenas, small group meetings, recitation of the rosary and many other activities continued virtually. Parish staff and volunteers made telephone calls to check in on the elderly and those in nursing homes. Outreach ministers continued to serve those who were having difficulties acquiring the basic necessities of life, especially food. Our pastor shared daily uplifting messages on Facebook, messages full of faith, hope, love and well-placed humor, keeping parishioners connected via his familiar and respected voice.

And now, as we resumed the public celebration of Mass June 1, our parish leaders have developed practices to keep those who wish to participate safe. There is also reassurance and support for those who are still anxious about venturing out and those who cannot come — those who are sick, vulnerable or who care for those who are vulnerable.

These careful and thoughtful actions underscore deep respect for human life — individual lives that need some help navigating today’s choppy waters. And as we try to find the best and safest way to swim out of this mess, we can look to people who stand right in front of us every day.

And importantly, at the same time, we can and should recognize the good that has been accomplished and express our gratitude for a job well done.

Rosanne Granieri, M.D., of Upper Burrell, is a retired physician.

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