​The Grace of Isolation- Finding Community

By the Rev. Cathy Scott
This has been an interesting time to “do church.” Services are canceled. Meetings and workshops postponed. Worship is online and prayers are texted. But, in the midst of the of these unusual times and fearful concerns, we have moved from going to church to Being the church.  The liturgy, the “work of the people,” has truly become our work. 
I feel deeply connected to Holy Family folk even in the midst of physical disconnection. God bless Ruth for hosting the diocesan Morning Prayer and Compline through her watch party on Facebook. When I see on screen hearts pop up, connected to a person I know, my heart sings. The people are the church.
In quiet times in the woods, I think of parishioners and pray for their well being and concerns. I know that others pray for me because I feel the peace that emanates from their prayers. The communion of saints in heaven is also the communion of saints on earth – all of us as we attempt to do our best to lives as disciples of our Lord. The people are the church.
Find God’s grace in the stillness after a rain and in the flickering of a candle's flame. God is present in your isolation and when we will gather again in community. Thank God for each other – literally. The people are the church. And the church says, “Amen!”