It’s quiet outside of Ellis Hospital in Schenectady this Easter Sunday. It’s a place where people usually flock to visit their loved ones on holidays. However, the coronavirus has changed that.
The hospital is limited and restricting visitations amid the pandemic. Reverend Richard Moran is the chaplain at the hospital. He says almost everything has changed since the virus hit the state.
“It has been difficult for family members not being able to come into the hospital,” said Moran.
However, the sounds of hymns could be heard over the wind on Easter Sunday. Outside the hospital, a gathering of prayer as churches and chapels are also closed amid the pandemic.
“Faith has been giving a lot of the patient's strength,” explained Moran, “there are people of all different faiths, and even no faiths, that appreciate prayer.”
The group, a prayer caravan, coming together. The stood at three of Ellis’ locations praying for support for those fighting for their health
“To know people are praying for them and they care enough, especially as a holiday significant as this to take their time and to pray for them, it means a lot,” continued Moran.
All of them taking on this virus alone, due to the restrictions and rules placed amid the pandemic. Schenectady Councilwoman Marion Porterfield helped organize the caravan.
“We care about them. We can’t be with them physically but we are with them spiritually,” said Porterfield.
Reverend Brenda Loveless-Shaw was one of the dozen participating in the day’s prayer. She turned to her faith, during difficult times.
“The separation, the nonconventional way of being there for your family has been the worst part for me,” explained Loveless-Shaw.
Loveless-Shaw tested positive for coronavirus, along with her husband, back in March.
“That’s been the greatest comfort, even when I’m weak I know there’s people are praying for both of us,” explained Loveless-Shaw.
The two of them were hospitalized. Her husband was on a ventilator for 17 days and was just released from the hospital on Friday. He is still recovering from an inpatient rehabilitation facility, but both are survivors of the virus. Loveless-Shaw has not been able to see her husband in more than three weeks.
“Anyone whose loved ones are on a ventilator, it doesn’t have to be a death wish. Keep your faith and call the hospital,” explained Loveless-Shaw.
However, she is now using her experience and faith to help others get through this difficult time.
“I feel the power of love. I feel him out here. It’s just bringing us closer to him so we can reach out to others and give them encouragement,” Loveless-Shaw said.
Proving the power of prayer isn’t about a building, but joining together in spirit for those who need it most.