This time of pandemics, both Covid-19 and the increasing awareness of systemic racism, has separated and connected our various communities. Trinity Church in Shelburne Falls has in many ways over the years been a community church and we are missing being closely connected to so many of you. Since March, our building has been closed except for essential workers like myself who are putting together online worship services and connecting virtually in other ways.
We have not been able to provide our West County Friday Night Community Meal or host our long-standing AA group or the parent/child playgroups for very young children. We are also not able to keep our Free Community Clothes Closet at the Cowell Gymnasium open for shoppers (although we are still able to accept donations of clothing and linens in the outside shed. )
We know that this is not forever, because nothing is forever and yet I miss you right now! I miss seeing you at our Community Meal. I miss knowing that our fellowship hall is a weekly sanctuary for AA. I miss the sound and the faces of the children, their parents, and teachers. I miss in-person worship, handshakes of peace, voices raised in song, breaking bread together.
Did I say I miss you? I do.
As soon as it is safe and wise, we will resume all our in-person activities and we will continue to keep a more active online presence as well. If you are lonely or in need or just wanting to talk please call the church at 413-625-2341. It would do my heart good to speak with you, so do not hesitate. We are physically separated but please let’s keep as socially connected as we can be.
Rev. Marguerite Sheehan
Shelburne Falls