From the Rector: COVID-19 Cannot Separate Us

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UPDATED 16 March 2020

Dear Friends in Christ,

Last Friday as we walked the Way of the Cross, I knew it might be the last time we walked the Stations together this Lent. These are sober times. Beginning on Monday, March 16, St. Mark’s and the Episcopal Diocese of Hawai‘i will suspend public worship and in-person activities until March 31. (Read the Bishop’s letter to the diocese.) Nevertheless, our prayer shall continue amidst this crisis, and we will continue to worship God Almighty in prayer and compassion. As long as the people of God are praying, the church is not closed. Please take note of the following:

  • The bishop’s visitation scheduled for March 22 has been postponed. We will reschedule the confirmation mass when we can ensure it will be a fulsome celebration.

  • The Thursday evening Lenten Bible Study will continue meeting, but the gathering will be online. The Wednesday morning Lenten Bible Study will join the online Thursday evening gathering. Other small groups will also meet online.

  • Regardless of closure, we have been asked to continue our Friday ministry to homeless youth, and we will ensure this happens.

  • As time unfolds, we will share further information with you. Please forgive us, for we may need to send multiple updates in the coming days. You may always check the parish calendar to view what has been cancelled or reinstated.

Some of you have been on silent retreats in the past. When the great silence begins, and no verbal conversation is allowed, people begin to converse with their eyes and helpful gestures. Without fail, communication becomes deeper, even though verbal communication has been suspended. This shall be our model. We may not be able to gather in person, but we can become more intentional with our communication. Phones, emails, and texts are still functional, and no virus can end your prayer life with God. Now is the time to increase your language of prayer to God.

I will continue to be in touch with the parish throughout this time. Please do not hesitate to contact me as we journey together through this Lenten wilderness.

Faithfully,
Father Paul Lillie+