Perhaps one of the greatest blessings-in-disguise of the COVID-19 pandemic is a renewed emphasis on the most basic unit of the Church, the domestic Church. From the earliest days, Christians have met in their homes. Practices of family worship, daily prayer, and catechesis have always been central in the Christian home. By order of the Bishop and mutual decision by me and the vestry, we will be holding celebrations of the Eucharist on Sundays with no more than 10 people, which will be live-streamed beginning at 10:45 am to you at the following link. The sermon will available on the podcast. Our children's catechesis team is getting geared up to do their work through video as well, and I'll be hosting my catechesis class remotely. But, what I want to focus on today is this glorious opportunity which you and I have to consecrate our homes and families to the Lord's use, to make our homes places of prayer and worship. Our friend Alissa Case posted this today: "Suddenly, we are our children's teachers and pastors. And perhaps the best thing we can do is realize that we have been all along." For single people, this time will no doubt be a time of increased loneliness. We're encouraging everyone to check in on their neighbors, perhaps leaving a note. I would like to encourage many of our single people to form household groups (of no more than ten) during this time so that you can share grocery shopping, meals, and fellowship in prayer. If you'd be interested in starting one of these groups, do let me know. This week, I'm including what I hope will be some helpful suggestions:
Tune in to our live-stream at 10:45 am on Sundays. You'll be able to comment and share prayer requests in real time.
Join us for Morning Prayer via Zoom (Meeting ID is 491-889-487) every weekday at 7:30 am. In the Book of Common Prayer, Morning Prayer starts on Page 11 and the readings for March are found on page 742. I'll be offering some video on content soon on our YouTube page on how to use the Prayer Book during this time.
Make a gift to Christ Church online or through text. (Details are below)
Have a celebratory breakfast!
Give a neighbor in the parish a phone call.
Go for a walk.
Take a nap.
Get dinner from one of our local restaurants offering curbside and to-go service. William Hoyt Bagels & Brews, Helberg BBQ, Harvest, Milo, Revival, and D's Mediterranean are all great!
Close out the day with Evening Prayer and take time for some family games.
We will consecrate enough hosts on Sundays to make home communions possible for as many as desire this. You can sign up to receive at home and a priest will come to you at a time convenient to you. Sadly, we cannot do this indoors. Please wash your hands and come outside for this when one of our clergy comes to you.