A Pastoral Letter from the Rector 3/15/20 7 AM CDT
Heavenly Father, giver of life and health: Comfort and relieve those who are sick and give your power of healing to those who minister to their needs, that we all may be strengthened in our weakness and have confidence in your loving care; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Dear Friends,
On this Sunday morning, I wanted to send you a word of comfort and hope. This is the first Sunday in our history that Saint Michael has been closed to the public. We are living in an extraordinary moment at Saint Michael and in our world, and I want us all to remember that we are not alone. At 9 a.m. this morning, click here to join hundreds online for our live worship service or watch later on demand.
By worshiping together on a digital platform, we are taking a hopeful stance. Out of love for our neighbors, our physical separation will help slow the spread of the novel coronavirus. By giving up our physical worship, we hope to keep fewer from contracting COVID-19, allowing our medical facilities to treat those in greatest need.
Although we may not be gathered physically, our common prayer will be joining the hearts and voices of our Christian sisters and brothers around Dallas and around the world. Join us in continued prayer each day during this holy season of Lent, and if you need a guide, remember our weekday Lenten podcast.
Even though many around us are anxious, there is no reason to be afraid. Over and over again, God’s messengers tell us “do not be afraid.” Remember one another in prayer, call one another regularly, and talk with those in your life who may be feeling the pressure of anxiety. For those of you with children in your life, I have included links to helpful resources for having meaningful conversations.
You can make a difference. What the world needs most is the spirit of love and hope. Christ’s Spirit is in us and we can help that Spirit spread. Wherever and whenever you can, remind one another that we are loved intensely by a God who will never let us go. Keep mindful of the most vulnerable inside and outside our church family, and if you know of any parishioners who need special support or care during this time, please call 214-232-7512.
God is good, all the time, and for that, we can all be grateful!
Peace and blessings upon you,
The Rev. Dr. Christopher D. Girata
Rector
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