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August 14, 2020Prayer in a Time of Pandemic for our Children and their Teachers
May we who are merely inconvenienced
remember those whose lives are at stake.
May we who have no risk factors
remember those most vulnerable.
May we who have the flexibility to teach our children at home or to help them learn online remember those who have no options.
Lord watch over and protect our children, their teachers
and school staffs as they begin a new school year.
As Christian people help us all to respect the health of others
by following the health practices that will keep others safe.
As fear grips our country, let us choose love.
During this time when we cannot physically
wrap our arms around each other,
let us yet find ways to be the loving
embrace of God to our school children,
Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
For those who worship via live stream we will continue
with a Communion Drive-by every Sunday at 9am on Lovell Ave.
Saint Michael Night Out – Monday, August 17th in the Churchyard at 8pm
With music by Ryan Beke, Jim Gaffigan on the big screen and light refreshments
Due to social distancing, we are limited to first 40 people who arrive
with any overflow restricted to the parking area.There really is no good path through the weeks ahead of us. So, we need to do what we can to make the best of it. Is having a parish social gathering in a time of pandemic, a wise thing to do? Probably not! But then social isolation for months on end doesn’t feel like it can be very good for your mental health either. We are trying to find a balance. I hope you will join me and I hope you will follow my example in observing those good health practices (such as maintaining 6 feet of distance from anyone that is not from your household, handwashing, and wearing a mask) which prevent the virus’s spread. Since we are outside and since not everyone has an easy time of wearing a mask, I promise not to play health police. I just ask you to be charitable and not get too close to those who obviously want to observe social distancing. We had a good, safe time at our last gathering in July.
Taking the Gospel Home
The Canaanite woman in today’s Gospel from the other side of the “tracks” took a risk to reach out for help when she cried, “Have pity on me, Lord, Son of David!” Who are the risk takers today? For the environment? For racial justice? For caring for people with the virus? Is anything great gained without risk? Do I ever think about taking risks to live my faith more fully?
The Canaanite woman took a risk for a loved one in need. Today we are invited to have faith like this Canaanite woman and pray persistently like she did with Jesus. For what or for whom do you need to pray persistently?
This weekend, I am happy to welcome back a great preacher, Deacon Hosea Bennett. I am hoping he becomes a regular with us.
