Dear One’s of St. C’s,

I remember when the CDC first said, “be prepared, but don’t panic.”  I had no idea what that meant.  As the weeks have gone on I am starting to find solace in their words.  Be prepared but don’t panic.  How are you preparing for this time when we are mostly asked to stay home?

I am dusting off old board games and books.  I am reaching out to friends and telling them we need to set up phone dates and google hang out dates. I am thinking about how we can play games through video chat.  A friend of mine and I have been leaving video messages for one another and we have decided to always end the video with one thing we are thankful for.  I am thinking of what a schedule for my three year old might be.  Every time I go to the store I buy a few more items that have a long shelf life.  I am taking deep breathes.  I am bringing my concerns to God. This is how I am preparing, but not panicking. 

A recently heard a pastor say, “This is not the fast we have chosen, but this is the fast we've been given.”  Life is going to be different for awhile.  This Lent, we are truly in the wilderness.  And although we will feel isolated from each other, we must remember that we are not alone in this.  We will stay connected, we will stay church, and we will care for each other.  

A month ago I wrote a letter to a friend who was going through a hard time and I wrote, “You are loved.  You are loved.  You are loved.  One of the few things you can take with you into the desert.”  I believe this with my whole heart.  You are not alone. God is present. You are loved.  

God made us to be relational beings.  We need touch, we need laughter, and we need each other.  That is what makes this social distancing so painful.  Remember this is temporary.  This is not the fast we have chosen, but this is the fast we have been given.  Let’s continue to seek each other out.  Think of ways you can do this safely.  We can write letters, emails, and texts.  We can make phone calls and do video chatting like FaceTime and google hang outs.  We can make silly videos and send them to each other.  Do not let the lie of isolation win.  Rely on your buddy group.  You are not alone.  You are loved.  

I will miss you all so much on Sunday morning.  I leave you with a blessing.

And may the Blessing of God Almighty be upon you; in the name of the Creator, Redeemer, Sustainer, who are among you and remain with you always.  

with Hope and Care, 

Meghan