The word ‘Quarantine’ comes from a Venetian dialect and means ’40 days.’ The practice comes from Jesus 40 days in the desert and the Lenten season of spending 40 days to work on one’s spiritual health in the ‘metaphorical desert’ with God before Easter. The 40-day quarantine was chosen to separate those who are, or who may be physically sick, from the rest of the world in order to heal physically and spiritually before they reenter the community. 
As we progress through Lent, I look forward to the world getting back to basics, spending time alone in the silence that comes after the noise, time together as families and time with God in prayer and with each other around the world in solidarity.
Don’t get me wrong, It won’t be easy. We will suffer. But, this is when the best of humanity shines. And, because of the internet, this quarantine will be communal. The world will share this Lenten season together.
Matt Meeks
Chief Marketing & Product Officer
www.augustineinstitute.org