May 9, 2020

Berkshire County churches ring bells each day to honor health care workers

REGIONAL
By Sharon Roulier

St. Agnes Church, Dalton (Catholic Communications file photo)

Watch related video here: https://youtu.be/otdNA4fnpXs

SPRINGFIELD — Catholic churches throughout the Berkshires and beyond are ringing their bells to join in honor and solidarity with health care workers during daily shift changes.

Parishes in the Berkshires decided to ring their bells each day at 3 p.m., a common hour for shift changes in hospitals and other health care facilities, according to Father Christopher Malatesta, pastor of St. Agnes Parish in Dalton. He said in addition to the daily 3 p.m. ringing, St. Agnes’ bells are rung on Sunday morning at 10 a.m.

“Our bells ring as a sign of hope to the community and the pleasant sound reminds us to be grateful to God and people in our lives that serve our community,” said Father Malatesta. “It is my hope that when people hear our bells they stop what they are doing for just a moment and have a thought or prayer for those who are serving us and are at risk doing so.”

Father Brian McGrath, pastor of St. Mary Mother of the Church Parish in Lee, said the church bells are rung every Sunday morning at 10 a.m.

“We ring our bells in honor and gratitude for all who serve on the front lines during this COVID-19 pandemic,” said Father McGrath. “When I start to feel sorry for myself because of how life has changed, I think of the sacrifices of those who are working as first responders and health care professionals. Their dedication is inspirational.”