Rector's Reflection: The Marchiest March Ever

Dear Friends,

Life lately seems to be about as predictable as March in New England. That is to say; it is not boring, new things are surfacing left and right, and sometimes the cold seems relentless....but only until the sun comes out...unpredictably. Last year, I loved that phrase about it being the Lentiest Lent Ever. Well, maybe this is the Marchiest March ever.

On the Covid front, I am happy to report that we are beginning to see low enough numbers that the diocese has given us a new set of guidelines which go into effect April 1st. Our amazing regathering committee will work on adapting them to our unique space and community and we will communicate regularly around what you can expect. In a nutshell, we will still mask at indoor gatherings, but we won't need to keep physical distance (a section of the church will be reserved for those who still need a 6' safety circle). Also, we might make the chalice available to all at communion- but no dipping (which is actually the germiest way to interact with the chalice).

Please remember, when hugging commences in April, that you still need to ask permission before embracing someone- no matter how enthusiastic your inner-hugger is feeling.

As we find ourselves yet again in the grey area of Covid protocol, you might want to assess your risk (both to yourself, and the risk of being a vehicle for Covid to move from one host to another through your healthy body). This risk calculator offered by Brown University is easy, detailed, scientifically grounded, and could help you decide how quickly you want to take advantage of the new leeway offered.

Living in grey areas, constantly engaging the decision making parts of our tired brains, consuming information about the war and suffering that is throttling our siblings in Ukraine and elsewhere, these things drain our energy and zap our joy. Yet, we need our energy, and also our joy, to be instruments of love and change in this wounded world. I find that the beauty of poetry, music, and art re-fill the cup, and reignite the joy- even when they make me weep; for they validate the deepest things and help us feel accompanied, dively and by one another. I was so grateful for this past week's Celtic Sojourn which focused on War, Peace, and Empathy. I commend it to you. And I invite you to join our FaceBook Parishioner Group and share the art, music, and poetry that has helped you to keep on keeping on in the Marchiest March Ever.

Yours in Christ,