Greetings, siblings in Christ and people who proclaim peace in the heart of Reading! My heart is so full when I consider how our God is working in your midst in these days while I am away.
In the early days of the Church, before it was even called Christianity, the Apostle Paul wrote to the followers of “The Way” — communities of people who gathered to share the life and teachings of Jesus of Nazareth. This way, Paul would be able to be in relationship with these communities of Jesus followers even while they were far apart, each doing ministry in their own ways.
Similarly, while I may not physically be with you, I continue to pray for our church without ceasing. Before I set out on my sabbatical, I thought it would be a fun idea to try out letter writing as a spiritual practice like St. Paul. This exercise brings me joy and deep abiding gratitude for our church. So here’s what I have to share with you from the not-so-distant shores of my sabbatical:
I was surprised that it took me all of September to transition into this rhythm of sabbatical. I’d heard plenty of clergy talk about how it took a couple weeks to “turn off church brain.” I thought about a number of you who have recently retired and spoken about the challenges of feeling like there is so much opportunity in front of you, but also the challenge of no longer having the same daily routines and rhythms. I found myself feeling like I needed to “produce” something or “do” something with this valuable time. But then it was in the little moments of connection, community, and finding joy that I realized all of that is all so much more valuable.
In the turmoil and challenge in our country and our world in the last few weeks, I have found connection, community, and joy to be a firm resistance against the mythos of power, control, hatred, and fear circulating our airwaves.
Until my next epistle, I pray you find yourself rooted in the little moments of connection, community, and joy. And in those moments, hold and recognize them as a gift from God.
Peace and blessings to you,
Rev Emelia