Being the Body of Christ...Always

Dear Friends,

This week, Bishop Goff extended our "fast from public, in person worship through May 8th.”  She took this step in support of the world community as we work together to slow the spread of the coronavirus.   Being together as the Body of Christ is at the very heart of our faith.  And yet, this fast from public in person worship is what we are called to do for the common good.  Its is a tremendous sacrifice, but a necessary one.    

“I appeal to you therefore, brothers and sisters, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds, so that you may discern what is the will of God —what is good and acceptable and perfect.”  Romans 12: 1, 2 

This is the beginning of our reading this Sunday from Romans 12: 1-21.   Paul is reminding the Christians worshipping in house churches in Rome about the importance of living in deep mutuality.  And mutuality requires sacrifice.  If we care deeply for another, we are willing to give up something dear to us for that person’s well being.  We are now making a sacrifice for the good of the human family, for the good of the world that Jesus came to be a part of.  And there are gifts even during this time of hardship.  

We are blessed that we can gather for worship on-line.   It's not the same as being together in the flesh, but we are blessed that technology can help us to connect in this new way.  I have received emails from many people, including people from around the globe, who are very thankful that they can be a part of our Saint George’s on-line community.  

We are also blessed that we can gather for Virtual House Church.  We have had a tremendous response to this new way of being church, 48 people so far.  These small groups start meeting this coming Sunday, Monday and Thursday.  If you are interested in becoming part of this new ministry, please contact Denise Cormaney denise.cormaney@gmail.com.  This will be an opportunity to support each other and deepen our faith during these trying times.  

I look forward to being together during our on-line services this Sunday and in our virtual house churches this coming week.  

“Let love be genuine; hate what is evil, hold fast to what is good; love one another with mutual affection…Rejoice in hope, be patient in suffering, persevere in prayer.”  Romans 12: 9 - 10, 12

Grace and peace,

Shearon+