Virus Updates
The church is not closed. The church is open, we have simply dispersed into the world! Our buildings are not currently open for in person use. We will be gathering for Sunday worship on-line at least through Labor Day.
"With every day that passes, it seems I miss our gatherings more and more! While there is much that I have gotten used to, the pain of not gathering together for worship, hearing your stories over coffee, and laughing with your children has not dulled, but intensified. Perhaps at the core of these challenges is that we do not control the timeline or the impact of this virus. Our illusions of control have evaporated before our very eyes. I was recently reminded that these words from the Lord’s Prayer, “Thy will be done,” can be some of the most challenging to fully affirm. Time and time again, scripture reminds us that God is trustworthy. Remember the journey of the Israelites through the wilderness, Mary affirming her vocation of motherhood, and Jesus traveling to the cross. These faithful witnesses help to remind us of the ways in which trusting God brings about transformation. This historic moment we occupy presents an opportunity to reaffirm our trust in God."
Click here to read the full update from the Rector on June 10 about details for re-gathering.
Until further notice, we will do our best to gather virtually for worship. Please click here for all current offerings, including a link to Sunday worship.
Sunday Morning Coffee Hour
Time: Beginning May 10, Sundays at 10 AM
Join Zoom Meeting here.
To Dial in: +1 301 715 8592
Meeting ID: 895 7043 6474
Practicing Center Prayer
Have you ever thought of trying Centering Prayer or Christian meditation but it seemed too difficult? Maybe you have tried it and found it actually was too difficult? Or maybe you were drawn to it, but knew you couldn’t squeeze it into your day. Now is the perfect time to give it a try! In this 6-week introduction to Christian contemplation, Laurie Denton will lead us in Centering Prayer and introduce other Christian meditation methods that can supplement or substitute for Centering Prayer. Each hourlong session will begin with a brief presentation, followed by a 20-minute guided Centering Prayer practice, with time to share experiences and observations at the close.
For those who would like a virtual check-in, please join our weekly opportunity to “see” others and pray together on Wednesday evenings at 8 PM. You may participate in these gatherings through Zoom video conferencing, or by calling in on a telephone. More comprehensive instructions on how to participate may be found here.
Please continue to check in on one another in the many organic ways in which you’ve already been doing this. Phone calls, emails, text messages, and snail mail are all important ways to let one another know we remain connected, despite forced distancing protocols.
Resources for Families with Children
This section is intended to be a lifeline – both for children and parents. Included in this section are ideas children will enjoy, as well as resources that will assist in guiding children through conversations about exactly what is happening and where God is in all of it.
Since the onset of COVID-19, St. Michael's has been fortunate to be able to make meaningful donations to organizations that are working most closely with those who are vulnerable in our community. The Mission and Outreach Committee moved to quickly donate to Arlington Partnership for Affordable Housing's (APAH) resident emergency fund, Arlington Food Assistance Center's (AFAC) efforts to fill the warehouse, and emergency funds for Doorways for Women and Families and Arlington Street People's Assistance Network.
Communications:
Previous Weekly Updates
If you are not on our distribution list, please click here to sign up so that you will receive any pertinent updates.
O God, you made us in your own image and redeemed us through Jesus your Son: Look with compassion on the whole human family; take away the arrogance and hatred which infect our hearts; break down the walls that separate us; unite us in bonds of love; and work through our struggle and confusion to accomplish your purposes on earth; that, in your good time, all nations and races may serve you in harmony around your heavenly throne; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. (Book of Common Prayer, p. 815)
BINGO!
Please print out several Bingo cards to play multiple games. As possible, print different cards for each member of your family. Have a writing implement or marker available to follow along in real time.
Join this family friendly game with fellow parishioners on Zoom:
Topic: B-I-N-G-O!
Sunday, July 5 at 4:00 PM
Join Zoom Meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82123768808
+1 301 715 8592…
