Bishop's Writing Enews February 2022

Dear Friends in Christ,

The Covid-19 pandemic seems to be winding down, and everywhere states, counties, and other government entities are doing away with mandates and requirements. We are all looking forward to an easier time of meeting with our neighbors and sharing a meal or a cup of coffee.

To say that the pandemic is “winding down” means, of course, that Covid-19 is moving from the pandemic phase to the endemic phase. It means we are hopeful that we can live with it in our communities. It also means, precisely, that it is everywhere. It’s not gone… It's part of the landscape. And that means that some risk remains for all of us, especially for those of us who are older, those of us who are not vaccinated, and those of us who have compromised immune systems.

The Diocesan Covid-19 Task Force released new guidelines for public worship this week, and I fully endorse their recommendations. I also want to say that each worshiping community will need to make its own risk assessment and decide how best to implement those guidelines. You are not required to take steps that you believe are too risky.

The minimum standard of church life is to do no harm. We hope or more to be sure, but, at a minimum, people should return home safe and sound. Our decisions should be guided by the vulnerability of the weakest among us. Gathering in groups indoors and singing together is still the best way to spread the virus. Some folks will undoubtedly decide to continue wearing masks for the foreseeable future. Some will decide to continue to stay at home until warmer weather. I expect we will be respectful of one another’s decisions and remember that our return to normal is actually to a new normal, one we haven’t experienced before. Kindness and respect are our watchwords.

In his discussion of community in Matthew 18, Jesus warned his disciples about placing stumbling blocks in the way of the “little ones.” As we work toward a new normal, let that be the standard we use. Let’s remember those who are particularly vulnerable. It’s about the little ones.

I look forward to seeing you all soon. I’ll probably be wearing a mask.

Peace,

+Steve