Editor’s note: This story was corrected March 27.

A second-floor window with the Blessed Sacrament and tabernacle lamp at St. Patrick’s Parish is easily visible from Main Street, and for local nurse Sheena Devota it’s a sign of hope and comfort in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“It is an incredible gift, in that we can be comforted by the reminder that although we cannot receive Christ in Communion, he remains ever-present to us in a very real way,” she said.

As of March 20, public Masses in the Archdiocese of Vancouver have ended, leaving Catholics unable to attend Mass in person or receive Holy Communion for the foreseeable future.

For Devota, the Blessed Sacrament in the window is one way she can stay connected and spiritually grounded.

A private chapel at St. Patrick’s, as seen from Main Street. (Father James Hughes photo)

It’s also an easy way to pray while practising social distancing. The adoration chapel at St. Patrick’s is open from 9 a.m to 9 p.m. but only for a maximum of four visitors. Anyone who is turned away, Devota said, is welcome to join her on the street, from the sidewalk or in a parked car, and spend time with Jesus in the window of a private chapel on the second floor of St. Patrick’s.

“The priests have made it possible to be with Jesus in a socially distant way and we need only to respond,” she said. “Going to Holy Hour and spending time with him is an opportunity to remind us of our ultimate identity, as beloved of God, and our ultimate home throughout the many storms of life.”

Devota works in a surgical unit, although it’s not dedicated to COVID-19 patients, the pandemic is making the job busier and more complicated for all health-care workers.

“The outbreak makes me concerned for those who are vulnerable, and also those working in the front lines, including first responders and essential service people. I am distressed where there may be misinformation or miscommunication and unnecessary anxiety about what needs to be done and what may lie ahead in this serious matter,” she said.

The chapel as seen in daytime. (Sheena Devota photo)

“However, I find comfort in Christ's great stillness in the Blessed Sacrament. His presence is grounding and gives me a sense of peace and joy.”

She invites all local Catholics to accept the invitation for a socially-distant Holy Hour. For more information or to sign up, visit www.kairosvancity.com/holyhour or www.stpatsvan.com/coronavirus.