Wednesday Word: O blest communion...

When we chose this line from the hymn For All the Saints as our theme for our All Saints celebrations, we did not know how timely it would be.

It was a blessing to begin sharing communion in two kinds last Sunday, with bread and wine for the first time since March 2020. A blest Communion indeed.

It was also a blessing to gather on the patio for Sunday Coffee, with coffee and pastries available from 8:45 to 10:15, and to Linger Longer after the 10:30 service for a time of refreshment and fellowship. Another blest communion!

And now we plan to gather for All Saints Sunday this week. The services will feature -

• Candles in the narthex in honor of the healthcare workers who have been on our prayer list throughout the pandemic.
• Candles in the chapel and nave remembering loved ones who died since March 2020.
• A children's procession of saints at the 10:30 service, depicting the prophetic witnesses of the church.
• Plus, you get an extra hour of sleep to prepare. Don't forget to set your clocks back on Saturday night!

This is an important Sunday, so we are adding seating to make room for more to participate. The choir will sit around the piano downstairs, making the choir loft available for seating. In addition, we will open every pew on the pulpit side. We will still sit in every other pew on the lectern side, and dividers will still be in the pews, so that those who prefer having extra space around them can do so. It may be helpful to hear that the epidemiologist who advises our diocese said on a clergy call this week that as long as most people in an indoor space are vaccinated wearing masks, sitting closely together is not a major safety concern.

Join us to honor helpers, acknowledge our grief, and celebrate the Saints.

Blessings,

Grace