26 May From the Pastor’s Desk
May 26, 2020
Dear Friends,
Our lives continue to be impacted by COVID-19 in so many ways. Our concern for those who have been made seriously ill by the coronavirus or who have died from it, leaving grieving friends and family behind, is top of our list, of course. As is our concern for those who are battling this devastating health crisis on the front lines. There is no shortage of “fodder” for our prayers these days, is there?
Far down the list of concerns is the inconvenience we are all coping with as a result of this once-in-a-lifetime pandemic. Some of these inconveniences are daily and are becoming somewhat routine: wearing a mask to the grocery store or ordering takeout instead of dining in a restaurant. Some of them hit a little harder, as they impact milestone events. My son’s graduation was canceled. My daughter’s wedding has been postponed, likely until 2021. And, I am also postponing my sabbatical until next year, as well. The crux of a sabbatical is rest and renewal, and there is nothing much restful or renewing about the constant threat of a deadly virus. The visits, events, and excursions I had planned as part of the sabbatical have either been eliminated altogether or seriously curtailed. So, I will try again next year.
Having said that, I will be taking some vacation over the next month to see family by driving first to Arkansas, then on to Colorado. I have pre-recorded sermons and liturgy through June 21st, so our Sunday Worship Services will continue just as they have been—10:00 a.m. Sunday morning via the Calvary website or our Facebook page. You will receive your Worship Resources each Friday, as well. A written copy of each sermon will also continue to be posted.
Jenny Cudahy is our “guru” who ensures that all this virtual “posting” business moves forward uninterrupted, and if you have any technical questions or difficulties, please contact her. Gene Kendall has graciously agreed to preach on June 28, and Judy Viccellio will continue to coordinate the recording of musicians and liturgists. I am indebted to each of them for working together on our behalf, that our worship works as seamlessly as possible over the next month.
In the office, Barbara Allen will be “holding down the fort,” in her usual capable and congenial way, so please contact her with any routine church business that arises. Our wonderful Elders will be providing backup, assistance, and counsel for any emergencies. Due to the uncertain nature of these days we are in, I will occasionally check in to monitor any significant decisions that need to be made, and I will moderate the June 13 Session meeting from wherever I am. But I am hoping to take a step back from the daily routine and schedule of church life. I am profoundly grateful for your prayers, and I especially appreciate them as I cover nearly 4000 miles over the next few weeks. I will return phone calls, emails, and texts when I return.
Stay healthy, stay safe. And “the Lord be with you ‘til we meet again.”
Yours for the Kingdom,
Michelle
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