April 21, 2022
Dear Congregation,
Normally Easter Sunday makes us think of spring, and the renewal that comes when our world wakes from winter. However, this week has once again surprised us as I drove to southern Alberta on Tuesday, during what can only be described as a blizzard. We are tired of snow and cold, and long for warm temperatures, and time spent gardening and outside.
It was a blessing this past weekend to worship together on Good Friday and Easter Sunday, both in person and on-line. Through music, poetry and preaching we reflected together on the sacrifice of Jesus and the joy of his resurrection. These services require an extra amount of liturgical preparation and participation, a heartfelt thank you to all who contributed to these services- it is much appreciated.
It was also good to be able to gather for coffee and cake after Sunday’s service, recognizing our need to be in community together. We are looking at creative ways we can encourage community together, in smaller groups as well as larger settings, to ensure that participants can feel comfortable. We invite everyone to look for opportunities to be a light to each other, to seek out those who are feeling the weight of two years of isolation, and who are not certain how to regain a sense of normalcy.
We know that covid has impacted members of our congregation and staff in recent weeks and we ask for patience as we work together through the challenges that illness and isolation can bring. As always, the best way that we can care for each other is to ensure that we all stay home when experiencing any covid-19 symptoms. Masking is encouraged for those who are vulnerable to adverse effects of the disease.
We also grieve the brokenness we see in our world, especially in Ukraine, where photos and videos of the devastation are hard to bear. We do not know the full impact this war will have on economies, food supplies and the stability of other nations. It is easy to become and lose hope. The Easter message is the ultimate story of hope triumphing over evil. The words of the poem “On This Day We Have Seen It All” by Martin Wroe that was read during the Easter service have stuck with me this week. May we all live in the hope provided by the One whose love is never done.
“On this day we have seen it all
Everything dies
Life dies
Death dies
Everything is done
Except love
Only love is not done
Love bears all things
believes all things
hopes all things
endures all things
At some point everything will be done
Except love
Love is never done”
In Christ,
Michelle Rooker