Everyone jokes that the church is terrible at change, but during this pandemic I have seen how the church is incredibly flexible. In thinking back to the middle of March, I cannot think of a single time that I have received a complaint about how St. Mark’s is adjusting to these new realities. We may have griped at times about being quarantined, but overall the church has rallied together to make things work.

It is a reminder of how flexible the church has been throughout the ages. If you know church history, you know that the church has always been nimble - quick to adjust to the currents of the world. The Gospel of Jesus Christ always adapts to every situation.

We are hopeful that the outlook is improving in Hawai’i. Society is slowly reopening according to the state’s mandates. Everyone is trying to make the best decisions so that we may all be safe. Such prudence can result in economic hardships, but in the end, because life is sacred, we endure these safety protocols. Our sacrifices save lives.

We also know that our efforts are not foolproof, and as Christians we have no reason to fear death. So amid the social distancing, we continue to help the needy. The pandemic is not an excuse to stop helping others, but rather, during such times Christians increase their outreach to those in need. Such is the example of Jesus Christ. Thankfully, throughout this pandemic, St. Mark’s has consistently served Youth Outreach every Friday, and now the preschool is using our church space to provide free meals every Tuesday through Friday to families with children in our neighborhood. The need is great, and the need keeps increasing.

Many of you are wondering when we may return to in-person worship in the church. You have also affirmed that the online masses have been a source of strength. The Eucharist is how the church proclaims the cross and resurrection of Christ since the first Easter, and we need this vital medicine during this pandemic. As well, whether we have two in the church for the mass with many attending online, or whether we have a packed church of people, the power of the Eucharist remains the same. Contrary to our capitalist society, the efficacy of the Sacrament does not increase because more people are physically present.

For now I am grateful that the majority of the congregation has participated in online worship. It is wonderful to see you every week on Zoom - some of you I see every day. You have adjusted marvelously, and I can see that relationships are strengthening online. Strangely enough, the church continues to flourish during this pandemic. This is further evidence that just like the cross during Christ’s time, the Gospel can take all things and transform them into blessings.

Father Paul Lillie +