Today, March 27, I want to bring you up to speed on some of the latest news from the Diocese.
1.) Clergy have been warned away from home visits. The purpose is to prevent the spread of the virus (especially among our home-bound.). This is something we have been doing for 10 days, so no big change there.
2.) Since you, the people of the church, are removed from our weekly celebration of the Eucharist, the bishops of our diocese will refrain from receiving the wafer and wine as well. I will follow the same practice. That will allow ALL of us to see the liturgy, pray over the bread and wine, and wait for our safe reunion. Please know that each host that is consecrated will be held in reserve until we all can offer thanksgiving together.
3.) At the direction of the Diocese, I am required to broadcast our Facebook Live services only from St. Paul’s, not Trinity, since that church is in really close proximity to the Rectory. Therefore, for safety’s sake, I will celebrate Eucharist there till this critical period is over. I will be using a silver chalice and paten from Trinity, which will also loan banners for the altar. The Wardens of the two churches will consult in order to make the celebrations at the end of this period truly something which reflects us all.
I just want to say at this time that you have been most patient with and kind about all these necessary changes. May the God of peace bless us all.
Faithfully, Cooper+
P.S. In order for them to remain available to us and keep them spiritually and emotionally healthy, please note that Mo. Cooper’s “day of rest” will be Friday, as will Fr. Mayer’s. Deacon Dorothée’s will be Saturday.
O God of peace, you have taught us that in returning and rest we shall be saved, in quietness and confidence shall be our strength: By the might of your Spirit lift us, we pray, to your presence, where we may be still and know that you are God; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and reigns, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
