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As we write this it has been almost four months since church has been what it was before the pandemic. Over the many years that we have attended St Mary, church life has been much more than just attending worship services on Sunday. Each of us has been involved in significant aspects of church administration and operation as Wardens, members of Parish Council, Lay Assistants, etc. and have been involved in innumerable parish events and activities. So much of this changed or, in fact, disappeared when COVID-19 closed the church building.
While we have greatly enjoyed the on-line services prepared each week, especially being able to participate while having a hot drink in a comfy chair while dressed casually, it is not the same without the physical presence of other people and the sense of community that accompanies it. Parish Council meetings and bible studies on Zoom have been much appreciated but lack the human touch of being together in one room.
Now, as we approach this Sunday and contemplate the first in-church worship service in quite a while it is causing us to contemplate what the new normal will be like. While it is tempting to dwell on those many things which we will still not be able to do like greeting each other warmly, singing, having wine at communion and sharing coffee afterwards, it is more important to focus on those things which we will be able to do - experience communion, gather and see other community members in person and make the first tentative steps toward a return to more normal conditions.
While we recognize that many will not be ready to take this step at this time for a variety of very valid reasons, we will be participating as fully as possible in the new opportunities that are available. We are looking forward to returning to worship in the church building and feel reassured by the many measures being taken to make it as safe as possible. We trust that God will be with us as we take these steps together and that as time goes on, more people will be comfortable joining with us on this journey. We are also hopeful that as time goes on, more aspects of church life as we knew it will be made possible. Please pray for all those who will attending this Sunday as we try to reinstate the physical aspect of community again.
The world around us has become quieter (quieter, not less busy) – less traffic, no office visits, nothing worth watching on TV, especially the news, no visiting or entertainment. May this re-entry into quieter services help us transition back to the roots of our faith. To quote the Blessing from the Book of Common Prayer Communion Services, the Priest says:
The peace of God, which passeth all understanding, keep your hearts and minds in the knowledge and love of God, and of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord: And the blessing of God Almighty, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, be amongst you and remain with you always. Amen.