Hi, everyone,

It was wonderful to be with so many of you this past Sunday for our worship service. I know it is an entirely different experience from gathering together in the church sanctuary on Main Street, yet it still felt to me like a meaningful and sacred time of connection.

And, some of you have shared that at home, online worship has the added benefit of having your pets able to attend worship with you!

As Liza said in her Time for All Ages, the building is closed but church is open.

Church is open because you, each and every one of you, is the church.

And, as you find your way through these messy and brutal times, as you tend to your grief, as you extend care and love to others, as you create beauty, and express thanks, you are living our mission and our values every day.

Although I am now working from home, I make a point of checking on the building once or twice a week. Earlier this week, when the sun was shining, I headed down and was delightfully surprised to find purple crocuses in bloom.

Many things feel uncertain. There is so much loss becoming present now and that is coming in the days ahead. And, crocuses return each year. And, our beloved church building will be there, ready for us, when the time is right.

For now, take good care. Please reach out if you are in need of any kind of help or support. And, please read through our newsletter for all the ways you can be staying connected as we practice Love from a distance.

The building is closed, but church is open.

With love,

Joan