Dear Friends in Christ—
I took the picture above in my office earlier this week. It’s my new puppy, Iggy, taking a nap. (Yes, he is sleeping with his tongue out.). What’s funny is that he fell asleep on my lap—and then I had to sneak away. Every time he felt me move, he would wake up and wiggle his way back next to me. I finally got away—in part because I tucked him in next to a pillow (with, appropriately, a picture of another dog on it).
Anyone who has had a puppy—or a child—or anyone beloved to them will probably recognize this impulse. We creatures of God want to be close to one another. Given the chance, we want to be together.
The good news of this time: we are, at last, given the chance. We are not all snuggling with puppies—but we are, after so long apart, heeding that deep instinct to draw together.
Celebrating the eucharist in the nave in person last week was a joy. It is a joy we will repeat over and ever—especially as different members of this place, at different times, make this return to community.
And being together does not only happen in worship. Another opportunity happens this weekend: our parish picnic. We’ll have field games from 10:30-11:30 (so you can just come on out after the 9:00 service), and the grill starts at 11:30 (so you can join us after the La Gracia service). Because of COVID precautions, this is not a potluck—as in previous years. But it is, as always, a chance simply to be together—to be close and enjoy one another’s company with no agenda other than Christian love.
I hope to see you on Sunday! Iggy won’t be there in person (in dog?), but I’m sure he’ll be close in spirit.
Yours in Christ,
Anne+