Honestly, it feels like plagues at this point, doesn’t it? With the injuries some are managing, the ongoing rise in virus cases—and the cultural tensions around what it means to live in community and be responsible—and now this. As you may have heard, the bell tower was directly hit by a lightning strike yesterday afternoon in the storm. The team was here until last night to assess the damage and take first steps toward repairs, and I wanted to send you an email letting you know our status.
Broadly speaking, we have potentially significant damage in several areas. The pipe organ is damaged, and the company is coming Friday morning to see if it can be fixed before Sunday. The phone system is down, but we still have email so communication is possible. The new AV system in the parish hall is down, and we will assess what repairs are needed there. The fire alarm system is down, and the company is coming to replace portions that were fried in the strike. Other systems appear to be holding, but we are aware that other problems may present themselves. While this is frustrating, it could have been much worse, and I am thankful for our ability to take a breath and then take a step.
Now, let me share with you that our plans for Sunday are going forward. We will celebrate Will’s last day with us one way or another. We will celebrate the kick-off of our fall Christian Education spaces with classes for adults, children, youth. The youth will walk in with the bag piper, and I will lead an important forum in the parish hall. We will bless backpacks and show appreciation for our teachers at the 10:45 AM service. We will gather to worship God both in person and online at the 8:15 and 10:45 services, and we will continue to support each other and do the best that we can.
I want to say this: I truly believe that, decades from now, folks will look back at this moment, these days when we faced a virus, injuries, frustration, and even a lightning strike, and they will be able to say that the community stepped up to the challenge with honesty, resilience, and grace. There is a reason we are named Grace Episcopal Church. So, I invite you to come to church on Sunday as you feel comfortable, or share online. And, even though we will all have on masks, we can be together and share joy as we take these steps going forward.
Blessings to you all,
Stuart+