We're All In This Together
(Argaille A. Di Matteo 10/1/20)
"We're all in this together," we've said since months ago
When a no-name, no-life virus drove our lives from "Fast" to "Slow."
And at that slower tempo, when we all "sheltered in place,"
Technology sparked a fire that buzzed through time and space.
People sang from balconies in countries far and near,
As social media outreach linked us all in times of fear.
"We're all in this together," a newfound clarion call
Inspired "essential workers" to pull us through it all.
And now, as we are rising, discovering brand new ways
To live, to work, to congregate, in May, our Pastor says
"I'm going to retire October of this Fall.
I needed to announce it, to heed my clarion call
To move into New Chapter, myself, also with my wife.
To Florida we're going to start a brand new life."
For him, it was so painful to share those simple words
At a time in the midst of uncertainty when, mostly, what we heard
Was "We're all in this together," a salve of hope and breadth.
Now UPC would navigate new uncharted days in Faith.
We'd gone from indoor Worship to pre-videotaped online.
With help from our great Tech Team, our Pastor's message did shine
The light of Holy Scripture, accompanied by Worship Team
In singing, or instrumental, though surreal it did seem.
We segued to Pavilion and live broadcast from outdoors
In June, starting the Summer with Worship on a grassy floor.
Yet, still our Pastor led us, not just in Worship there,
But during the weeks from curbside, visiting members everywhere,
At homes, or take-outs, or hospitals without skipping a beat.
Rev. Rick drove, walked, phoned, texted, emailed, "Zoomed" us all in our "retreat."
And now we're in the last week, "home stretch" for his departing.
Having worshipped together outside, now inside we are starting
In newly painted Sanctuary with new light-filtering shades
In "social distancing," masked, new Worship, a commitment we have made.
"We're all in this together" has taken on new meaning
As we have met and gathered, toward new horizons we are leaning.
Our elders, young adults and youth, parents, children are aspiring
To new adventures in school and work, in daily Life, Faith firing
Our minds, hearts, souls to life again in newfound strength, resolve,
As "We're all in this together" buoys us up, problems to solve.
Our beloved Pastor now is leaving after 13 years
Of being part of our Church Family, walking with us through joys and tears.
We now embark on Adventure, searching for new Pastor in Fall weather,
A time of Change and Letting Go,
In Faith we'll know
"We're all in this together."
