I was watching Onward with my kids last week. For those who haven’t seen it, it’s another great coming-of-age story from Pixar (available to stream on Disney+) where two brothers have to figure out how to grow up after the death of their dad. Because the movie takes place in a world of magic, things which for us are metaphorical are literal there. At one pivotal moment, for example, the protagonist actually steps out over the edge of a canyon on an invisible bridge. If he stops believing the bridge is there, he will fall.
No spoilers if you haven’t seen it, but navigating life is beginning to feel a little bit like stepping out into the unknown without understanding where the risks, dangers, and opportunities are. How do we go about our lives when the threat of new outbreaks remains high?
I have resisted and will continue to reject the language that churches are currently closed. Sure, buildings sit empty for now, but we’ve been holding a worship service each Sunday as we have since 1823. People have been reaching out to one another. Prayer is happening. New people are getting involved in what is going on in this church community. No matter what comes next or when we are meeting in person, we will continue to offer high-quality digital means of grace and connection. I’m looking forward to getting more voices and more participation in our online worship services going forward. I’ll share the technological assistance to make this happen, but our goal is to continue holding worship that opens people up to the experience and grace of God, even through a screen.
So please, if you have questions about how to connect… if you are Zoomed out and tired of technology… please reply, call, or message me so we can connect. We are stepping out together into the unknown and unknowable.
Passing this on from our Bishop, John Schol:
Action Item: All Clergy and Laity
Bishop Schol Address. -Bishop Schol will give an address to the people of GNJ Tuesday, May 5 at 7:00 p.m. to share about the state of GNJ regarding congregational finances, GNJ finances, ministry within our communities for people affected by COVID-19, grant programs for congregations, shared ministries apportionments and move dates for clergy. All clergy and congregational leaders are encouraged to attend.
Tuesday, May 5 at 7:00 p.m.
Click here to join Zoom Meeting | Meeting ID: 956 7021 9440
Dial in: 1 646 876 9923
Whatever today brings, know you are loved, cared for, and prayed for as a member of this community.
Grace and Peace,
Pastor Ben
