The Church Moving Slowly
The Christian Church has often been criticized for moving too slowly. Indeed, it often takes the Church decades, if not centuries, to respond to cultural shifts. Among the many reasons for this slow pace is being charged with preserving Tradition. It is no simple task to discern what is essential in the teachings of Christ and what is simply a reflection of a particular culture and a particular time.
Given that long history of slow movement, I have been amazed to see the Church so rapidly respond to our current circumstances. Just about every congregation, from the very large to the very small, has moved worship, ministry, fellowship, and education online. Most congregations have been talking for over a decade about increasing their online presence. And in a matter of weeks, that has happened! Thank you to the many at Faith Episcopal Church who are laboring each week to keep us connected to God and each other, and to continue our ministries in the ways that are available to us.
None of us knows exactly what things will look like in the months to come. As we carefully consider how to ease some restrictions, we are wise to move very slowly in order to protect each other’s well-being. Perhaps the Church’s long history of slow movement is a great asset during this time. It is not wise or loving to rush back to our “normal” ways of doing things, no matter what others around us are doing. It is more important to protect each other. In our opening Collect for this Sunday, we will ask the Lord to “pour into our hearts such love” for God and for each other. In our lesson from 1 Peter, we will hear, “Who will harm you if you are eager to do what is good? But even if you do suffer for doing what is right, you are blessed.” Let us not be too eager to do what we want, but instead be eager to do what is good and right, for each other.
My friends, be patient. Be kind. Be good. Know that you are blessed and loved.
Reverend Sonya
