Caution or Fear? Try Love

Last Sunday SUPC held it's first in-person worship service since March 15th. There were a few things that were the same as that service four months ago, and there were many things that were different. Last Sunday there were some things the same or at least familiar from other summer services as SUPC, and there were some things that were different. Just link in any worship service, there were elements that could have gone more smoothly, and pieces that should not have been as well handled as they ended up being. Just like in any service, my favorite part will not be the same as your favorite part, or even if we both have the same moment of the service that touched our souls, it will be for different reasons, and God has a different message in the inspiration for each of us. This is normal. 

My first summer at SUPC, I remember we gathered for worship in the pavilion. I was happy to share in sacred space in that setting - it reminded be strongly of my summer camp experiences, very good memories. I feel very close to God when I am in nature, even when I am sneezing. I feel grounded in the earth, and able to touch the sky unimpeded. I feel very worshipful outside, and I was happy to lead worship in that setting. I missed it last summer while we were paving, and I am glad we have the space now. Imagine having to draw out physical distancing boxes in the gravel and mud?

Looking around everyone who was physically gathered on Sunday, I was starkly reminded of the people who were not present in person under the pavilion. I acutely missed each of you. I respect your need to continue worshiping from home and look forward to the day when a safe vaccine is ready for sharing. 

One element of Sunday's service, which is a part of the COVID Safety Plan, is the requirement for wearing masks. I had my mask in place from the time one other person arrived on the campus until I was in my car, heading home. I wear my mask out of love for you. It is not fear of getting the virus that has me wearing it, but caution and love that I not pass germs - covid, flu, cold virus - to you. Something else you may or may not be aware of: on Sunday, during the worship service, I was in the middle of a full blown allergy hive attack. I was acutely aware that if it was not an allergic reaction, I was putting each of you at risk of an unknown pathogen, and I wondered and prayed if I should cancel the service. I chose to carry on, I prayed I made the right choice. I kept my mask on to protect you, not me. 

If there is one lesson this half year has taught us, it is that we have a chance to reimagine who we are, a chance to grow from the ashes of this year, to be something new, remembering and honoring the past, and stepping forth boldly in love to an unknown future. The unknown future will have familiar elements from the past, but it should not be tradition for tradition's sake. Watch the beginning of The Fiddler on the Roof, and ask yourself if we follow traditions out of fear or love?

I love you all
Stay Safe and Healthy
Wash Your Hands
Peace be with you
~Rev. Andrea Joy Holroyd