As I sit here in my rural corner of the world, I am reminded, because of the corona numbers and how they have spread so disproportionately, of just how different the meaning of rural may vary from place to place. I always thought Turlock was rural until I moved to SE Missouri. Now I find myself in a little pocket of safety. Yes, the use of the term "safe" may seem self-deluding, but I have only to look at numbers to feel a sense of "safety" and gratitude for where I am at.
We, like everyone else, are taking the measures needed to slow this virus down and life is awkward and a bit complicated but after my own personal experience of feeling dread passed, I settled down into a routine which seems to be working out, if not comfortably, at least workable. Of course, that could change tomorrow but, I'm writing this today.
That all being said, I must say that nothing has disturbed me more than when churches started to close. I never imagine that Catholic churches would actually close. Slow down, yes, but close? Never in our life time have most of us Catholics experienced such a thing. Even bad weather doesn't keep us at home. So here I am, writing to friends and family, Catholic and not, sharing the news that our diocese, like so many across the country, has literally shut down. I am rattled to my bones.
Because of this, I feel deeply moved to ask that you all, in your own way, pray for yourself, your state, our country, the world. Please pray daily. Even just a moment of "Hello God, it's _____. Please protect us" is a prayer. All prayer is powerful, Combined prayer can move mountains.
I love you and I pray for you,
Annie Jeffries
So many changes everywhere. Looks like London is going into lockdown on Friday and our age group is to isolate and/or keep several feet away from each other.
ReplyDeleteI am glad you are safe and well! There is a website called Zoom, and our church meets with that site. We can all see each other as we sit at home, and speak to each other freely.
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