I spent a good part of my day at my parish hall, so that I could have a few contractors come through and review structural repair needs in the parish hall. My church is across the street. I have a key to the church building. I could have entered and luxuriated in it. 1/3

However, I did not enter. My bishop has not lifted the suspension of public services. He has not given the green light to gather in church quite yet. So I obeyed in this spirit and did not enter when I know so many others are desperate for it. 2/3

The icon that welcomes our parish visitors and members is that of the Good Samaritan, someone who cared for others at great risk and cost. I don’t think he saw it that way. And we shouldn’t see refraining from church gatherings as a great cost, but as a gift to others. 3/3