P.E.I. bishop asking Catholic churches to ring bells on Easter to show hope during pandemic

Some people on the Island may be wondering how to celebrate Easter during the COVID-19 pandemic, including religious leaders.

The Bishop of the Diocese of Charlottetown has an idea. He is asking all Catholic churches on P.E.I. to ring their bells at noon on Easter Sunday.

Richard Grecco says it's a way to reach out during these difficult pandemic times.

"I think that the bells are a call that we can rise above this through our solidarity, through our stick-to-itiveness," he said.

 "Through following the guidelines that our health-care givers are offering, through supporting our health-care givers who are putting their lives on the line for us, really."

He is asking that the bells ring for 60 seconds or more and for people to pray at the same time.

"I said 60 seconds because some of our churches are country parishes and pulling on that rope for more than a minute can be exhausting," he said.

60 seconds

Grecco said he is hoping the bells will be rung to make "one loud sound for one full minute" to remind caregivers, first responders and health-care workers the Island appreciates the hard work they are doing.

"The bells are ringing with the promise of the resurrection. The bells are expressing the promise of hope," he said.

"In this difficult time, more than ever, I think people need to remember the message of hope their faith brings them."

Though he speaks for the Catholic church, Grecco said Protestant churches are welcome to join in, as well.

"The more the merrier," he said. "It's the same Jesus we celebrate."

COVID-19: What you need to know

What are the symptoms of COVID-19?

Common symptoms include:

• Fever.
• Cough.
• Tiredness.

But more serious symptoms can develop, including difficulty breathing and pneumonia, which can lead to death.

Health Canada has built a self-assessment tool.

What should I do if I feel sick?

Isolate yourself and call 811. Do not visit an emergency room or urgent care centre to get tested. A health professional at 811 will give you advice and instructions.

How can I protect myself?

• Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
• Clean regularly touched surfaces regularly.
• Practise physical distancing.

More detailed information on the outbreak is available on the federal government's website.

More COVID-19 stories from CBC P.E.I.