Following the strict implementation of the government’s health and safety protocol on COVID-19 pandemic, the University of Saint Louis (USL) adopted the trend in conducting virtual Masses and other online religious activities.

The Office of the University Chaplain, along with the Office of the Campus Ministry and the Publishing Office, set up an online live streaming of Eucharistic masses, rosary rallies, as well as vocation and mission masses.

All said religious activities were streamed via USL’s Facebook page.

When asked about his thoughts on the efforts of the University in conducting virtual masses, Thadd Julius Anthon Gacias, a first year BS Education student, said that he appreciates the efforts of USL for reaching the spirits of every Louisian especially in these trying times.

“With this, the first core value of the University will be manifested in our hearts and will inspire us to study betwixt our personal and academic ventures,” Gacias added.

Sharlotte Ferrer, also a BS Education first year student, recounted that she used to attend Sunday masses but the COVID-19 pandemic has suddenly stopped her Church duties due to ban on mass gathering.

“I am grateful that the University conducts virtual and online masses because it does not just lift my religious spirit, but it also helps in reducing the community and local transmission of the coronavirus disease,” Ferrer ended.

The University likewise started to air its new program titled “May L.A.K.A.D. Tayo!,” a pastoral conversation which aims at inspiring young Louisians to journey towards faith as well as featuring vocation stories of priests, nuns and missionaries.

L.A.K.A.D. stands for Luisyanong Alagad ni Kristo sa Asal at Diwa.

Suspension of classes, travel restrictions, and ban on social gatherings were strictly implemented during the country’s months-long lockdown which started in mid-March this year.