So Close and Yet So Far
Last Sunday we hosted our first-ever “Kick-Off Sunday Drive Thru Blessing.” The past six months have been an endless series of “first-ever” moments and kicking off a new program was no exception. I continue to be impressed by the creativity of our staff, involvement of all of you and stirring of the Holy Spirit that is carrying us through these times. It is a good time to be the church, especially the people of God at Abiding Presence.
After waving and chatting with a steady stream of nearly 100 cars spread over two hours last Sunday, my heart was full. It was SO good to see all of you and have the chance to catch up for a moment. I loved seeing your faces, hearing about your summers and realizing how much our kiddos have grown. We were so close…and yet…so far, too. I longed to give hugs, share laughter and say, “Have a good week!” knowing that I would see you again in just a few short days.
We have several more “parking lot style” opportunities planned for this fall. Starting this Sunday, Michelle Galdames-Henry is hosting “Brunch Bunch” as an opportunity for kids to worship together with her in the parking lot. Second graders are invited this Sunday or next Sunday and can sign up here.
On Sunday, October 4 at 5:00 p.m. we will have our annual “Blessing of Pets & Stuffed Animals” service in the parking lot. This service lends itself well to being outdoors and distanced. We’ll ask all of the people to wear masks and practice social distancing (this will always be the case with our parking lot services/events). You will be able to either participate from your car in the parking lot or stand/bring lawn chairs to be in marked and distanced spots. We also have in the works a Reformation Sunday parking lot celebration after our outdoor confirmation service on October 25 and a special All Saints Sunday parking lot worship experience on Sunday, November 1 (stay tuned for details). Then, just wait for Christmas Eve when we’re planning a drive thru nativity experience, parking lot services and a late night livestream service! All that is to say, there will be lots of opportunities for us to safely see each other this fall!
Finally, I came across an article this week from the Pew Research Center titled “Will the Coronavirus Permanently Convert In-Person Worshipers to Online Streamers?” It reminded me that our current worship situation is temporary. For now, livestream worship is the best way we can be the church, but that won’t be the case forever. Soon, we’ll be back together again! If you need a laugh and some hope in the midst of this livestream season of worship, check out this fabulous Hamilton parody. It keeps me grounded in a fun way in the bigger picture of what we are doing and why during these times (although, we’ve figured out the Holy Communion piece of it!).
If I can be of support, reach out! See you on the livestream this Sunday!