Today, Joanna has graciously gifted InReach the opportunity to share a moment that will help prepare all if us for the future of our church family.
The physical and mental health of our congregation has and always will be the center of our InReach ministry.
In preparation for our return to a full slate of Sunday morning offerings including 8am, 10am and welcoming back the future of St. Barnabas, our children and youth, we ask that you to “bear one another in love”.
Within our church family we must make room for diversity by respecting the threshold of each person as they return to worshipping at St. Barnabas.
So much anxiety has been building over the last 14 months. For many of us, we have been returning to a new normal but for others, next Sunday may be the first time they have gathered with anyone outside their family bubble.
Please remember that the risk is especially tricky for people in mixed vaccinated households. Our children still cannot get their shots and certain people – such as those taking immunosuppressive drugs or have other underlying health issues are vulnerable.
The plans for our return have been carefully and prayerfully thought out for next Sunday and offer an expression of care for everyone in their varied needs. Acceptance of our diversity and compassion for everyone in our St. Barnabas family can give us all a little grace.
We have done an amazing job of caring for each other from afar and now we have the opportunity to do this face to face, mask to mask and heart to heart.
Just as Paul instructed the people of Ephesus we are reminded this week to:
“… lead a life worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, making every effort to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.” Ephesians 4:1-3
- InReach Ministries
I would love to hear your reactions and thoughts! Please respond at clergy@st-barnabas.org and let’s have a conversation!