Archways Spring 2021

In this issue of Archways, we mark the beginning of the return to full participation in Church activities in the Archdiocese of New York. Our special lead feature, “Return of the Faithful,” describes the arc of Mass attendance from March 2021, when churches closed for in-person Mass, to the present. We hear from pastors and health experts on the efforts to regather all Catholics at services that are safe and welcoming, where all can experience the joy of community, the mystery of Christ’s Presence on the altar, and the receiving of the Eucharist.

Our cover story, “Saints of New York: Venerable Pierre Toussaint,” tells the story of the remarkable man, born a slave, who became one of the most prominent New York Catholics of the 19th century – and is now a candidate for sainthood. And our third feature, “Joyful Passages: The Words That Inspire Us,” presents favorite texts – biblical passages, poetry, saintly writings, songs – recommended by some of our priests, ordained religious, and music directors around the archdiocese.