Gathering for worship in the time of Coronavirus presents its challenges--and its opportunities. Maundy Thursday only increases this. Remembering the final night of
Jesus' life as a man among friends, this is an especially "embodied" night, when the Church has gathered to eat together, to break the bread "in real time" with Jesus, and even to wash each others' feet as Jesus did wash the feet of his friends.
Worship remotely while sheltering in place makes all of these impossible--or so it would seem.Church on the Hill partnered with the Monterey UCC to have an affecting
evening, our faces crowded onto our computer screens and our altars prepared, with candles lit and the Lord's supper set out. We even had hymn-singing: Bev recorded accompaniment ahead of time on her piano at her home in Connecticut.
There's much to grieve about being separated from one another as the COVID19 crisis demands we do. There's also a lot to celebrate, as reimagining long-practiced traditions cantering new vitality, understanding, and depth.
Very beautiful and moving service. Thank you Liz. I love the pictures of the different altars. These times call us, as God's people, to adapt and grow. I think we are closer to each other and to God because of the extra hardship of living with Covid-19 and being apart but together. Bless you Liz for being our pastor and teacher through this difficult time.
Was a wonderful experience to have with everyone last evening. So good to see both new and familiar faces. I always love the Tenebrae service. It was special to be able to have that even under these circumstances. Thank you, Liz, for all the time and effort that went into making this a success.