In this unprecedented time of global pandemic, physical distancing, and shelter-in-place, living liturgically is a practice of hope, comfort, and orientation. Our day-to-day routines may be decimated by the essential mandate to stay home for the sake of us all, but the Church Year is still keeping time. It holds us still. As I wrote for my church on Laetare Sunday a few weeks ago, the second Sunday of our physical isolation,
“[Today] is still a day set apart to remind generation after generation that despite the challenges of the season, joy can be found. Despite the limits of our situation, we can draw what we need from God’s embrace. We cannot gather together physically in a sanctuary. We cannot greet one another with holy hugs or high fives. We cannot join one and all around a table.
“But it is still Laetare Sunday.
“Rejoice.
The church can be a stubborn mother. Those generations before us insist that we can have this this hour, this moment, this breath for worship and joy.”
(Find the full text here.)
Holy Week and Eastertide are still coming, beloveds. Despite our circumstances. Despite our separation. Despite our fear.
And we can keep the feast. Our stubborn spiritual kindred have given us ways to let church life flood home life. Which, to be clear, is all a practice in letting ourselves recognize God’s life swamping us whole.
So, Holy Week 2020 – let’s go.
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