Be “super-spreaders of the Gospel”, not the virus, the Bishop of Plymouth has told the faithful.
Reflecting on his experience of having just received his first dose of the Covid-19 vaccine, Bishop Mark O’Toole said he had been invited for it as he is regarded as a potential ‘super-spreader’ of the virus, given his role working in the community and ministering to communities across the South West.
The bishop recalled how the nurse who facilitated his vaccine had said to him: “It’s not a nice title for you, Father, but of course you’re a super- spreader of the Gospel”, to which he replied: “I certainly hope so!”
Speaking during his homily at Plymouth Cathedral on Sunday 14th February, Bishop O’Toole urged people who were doubtful about receiving the vaccine to “reflect seriously on the matter”, for “although it is a personal decision it is not just a private one”.
He said he had received the vaccine “out of love” for those he encounters and hoped that all believers would be open to doing the same, so as to remain healthy and in order that they could be “super-spreaders of the Gospel”.
Picture: A man prays in Westminster Cathedral. (Mazur/cbcew.org.uk).