Among other things, Catholic churches are set to re-open this week on a limited basis. As per government direction regarding capacity, churches will be limited to 30% of their worship space. I'm a bit unclear about the math here as I wonder why groups of over 100 people will be allowed to gather in a public place while social bubbles have been maxed out at ten.
However, I must admit that watching Mass on TV has been very unsatisfying for me these past three months. As well, I am disheartened that the Church has not used their media platform during the pandemic to welcome and engage people who would not normally be church goers. What a lost opportunity!
Paradoxically, these this time away from formal services have been extremely enriching and spiritually satisfying for Terry and me.
We have embarked on an early morning ritual which consists of Bible readings followed by discussion which often takes us beyond my two coffee limit. Currently we are in Paul's letter to the Romans after spending three weeks on the Passion of Christ and six weeks in Acts.
As well, we are doing a weekly Bible study via Skype with friends Karen and Joe. Unlike Catholics who were once taught to leave Bible interpretation to priests, our Episcopalian neighbors are lifelong students of the good book and their insights and direction have been invaluable to tyros like Terry and me.
Of late, I'm coming to an understanding of the person of St. Paul who, unlike most of the apostles, had the intellect, charisma and courage necessary to spread the Good News far beyond the walls of Jerusalem. As well, during our study of the events of Holy Week, I came to the realization that Jesus took off his superman cape on the way to Calvary so that we might be drawn to the foot of His cross during our own struggles.
Indeed, it doesn't take an expert to understand the Good News of the Bible. Rather, it's all about having an open mind and a willingness to let the Spirit be your personal guide.
I guess what I'm trying to say is that I'll be getting back to attending Church services in person only when the Spirit actually moves me to do so.
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