Message from the Priest-in-Charge
Dear friends,
We are now in the season of Lent. The word "Lent" comes from the Old English word lencten, which simply meant spring (the season when the days lengthen). So I keep telling myself that the season of spring is already here... as I sit and look out at the snow and ice on the ground.
And just as we wait for spring and for Easter in this time of Lent, we also wait expectantly to gather again.
This past week, I reached out to the bishop's staff to ask about St. Gabriel's reopening for in-person services. As it turns out, our bishop has been in conversation with the Presiding Bishop Michael Curry and other national bodies, and the consensus is to hold off on in-person gatherings for a little while longer. Though individual bishops can make decisions for their dioceses at their discretion, most dioceses are continuing to ask churches to remain virtual for the time being.
Though I know that this is the safest course of action, I have to admit that I still feel a bit disappointed not to be able to gather in-person yet, and I can certainly understand if you feel disappointed or frustrated as well. It's hard to not be able to physically gather at St. Gabriel's.
With that said, I'm grateful for the connections we still have. It's a gift to see your engagement with the worship services on Facebook - the "likes," the comments with well wishes, and the virtual "passing of the Peace." At our socially distanced "Ashes to Go" last week, around 25 folks came in to receive ashes, and it was wonderful to talk with many of you, even for just a few minutes.
I hope you'll continue worshiping with us virtually each weekend. Don't forget that during Lent, we will also pray the service of Compline from the New Zealand Prayer Book on Wednesday nights at 9:00. You can watch all these worship services on our church Facebook Live page.
Be well, and stay safe!
In Christ's love,
Andrew+
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