What a strange Lenten Season this has turned out to be!  We are asked to stay away from each, in order to save each other, creating a very different Lent.  Let me explain.

Lent has always been a solemn time for me.  When I was a child, I attended a parochial parish school.  Lent was never far from my thoughts. I had daily reminders of the concepts of sacrifice and repentance.  I saved my pennies to give to the missions. I gave up candy or other items of enjoyment for the duration.  (Only to burst into a glorious celebration of my sacrifice on Easter morn.)  I studied Jesus’ death and resurrection.  I prayed and asked for forgiveness.  I did this as an obedient child, trying to please.  The constant presence of believers contributed a foundation to my young faith journey.

As an adult, Lent took a different direction for me. Especially at Joy, the special Lenten homily themes created another opportunity to learn more about the lessons that Jesus taught.  The Wednesday night Soup Suppers and Lenten Services added a dimension of community and unity to the Lenten journey.  They were special occasions that I looked forward to each year.  Joy’s loving community provided solace and comfort.

The COVID 19 pandemic has changed the face of Lent for me.  No more Soup Suppers; no Wednesday evening services; no in-person Sunday services; no choir; no church activities at all.  I know that we don’t need a physical building to be church in the world.  However, I believe that we need the people!

The common sharing of a belief and the ability to express that view freely with like-minded people is an aspect of church community that I have missed during this strange Lenten season.   I can and do pray alone.  However, praying, singing and sharing Christ’s Body and Blood with my Joy community is a soul enriching experience.  It is precious and I miss it.

In contrast to these feelings of loss, I feel closer to God at this strange time.  And, I know that my relationship with God is enhanced by the interaction of a community experiencing the same walk to resurrection.  We are the Church!  Remember, God loves you unconditionally, especially in the midst of confusion, frustration and illness.  Always.  (Read 1 Corinthians 1:1-9 We are called to be in fellowship with Christ.)

Terri