March 23, 2020 updates

March 23, 2020

My Friends – 
​
You will have seen Governor Baker’s emergency order declaring a stay at home advisory and directing all non-essential services to close as of noon tomorrow.  For us on the Vineyard, this means what most of us have been doing already:  social distancing, staying at home, making food and pharmacy runs, and going for walks when we can.  
 
Workers at places of religious worship are deemed essential workers under this order.  This means that Grace Church will continue to offer our online services, phone support, and carry on in general.  
 
We continue to have a group of parishioners who are willing and ready to run errands for others, shop, and be available for phone calls as needed.  Please call the parish office at 508 693-0332 if there is a way they can be helpful to you.
 
I am reminded of the words of St. John and St. Paul:  “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it.” (John 1:5) and “We do not lose heart.” (2 Cor 4:14).  
 
We will get through this.  And we will get through it together.  As we continue to follow social distancing, wash our hands, and make sure that we and our neighbors have enough food and medication, we are doing our part to mitigate the virus’ effects.
 
Once we’ve done all we can do, then let’s get on with things and pay attention to those around us.  The building is closed; we are open.
 

Please see the following items and updates below:  
 

• All in-person services for Holy Week and Easter have been cancelled.  I’m hopeful that the diocese may arrange for several service options – stay tuned.

 

• Barbara Besse is moving to Washington to be closer to her daughter, Linda.  We had planned a festive Coffee Hour in Barbara’s honor to thank her for all that she has done for Grace Church and so that we could say goodbye to each other.  That plan was changed by the coronavirus, and I am saddened to write to inform you that Barbara and Linda are scheduled to leave tomorrow.   Barbara has been a faithful and dedicated member of Grace Church for decades, and we will miss her voice in the choir and her presence in the parish and on the Vineyard.  We are sorry to see you go, Barbara, and will work to find a suitable expression of the love and esteem in which you are held by Grace Church.  In the meantime, God bless you during this time of transition and as you travel.

Cards and notes can be sent to Barbara in care of Linda Besse at the following address:
Barbara Besse
c/o Linda Besse
15908 East Cooper Road
Mead, WA. 99021
 
God bless you, faithful friend, and thank you for everything you have given us.

• At this point, thanks to Leslie Frissel, our final Friday Community Supper is planned to take place this Friday as a drive through, to go event.  As events change quickly, please check with Leslie or the Rector on Thursday to make sure the meal will still take place.
• Thanks to Karen Huff, Wes Nagy, Jan Hyer, Annie Palches, Akia Sharp Barbosa, the Rev’d Dr. Storm Swain, and John Hickey, we were able to put not one, but two Sunday services on our website.  As of early this morning, 8 people had watched the video service on our Youtube channel (Grace Church Vineyard Haven – feel free to subscribe); 6 viewed it on our website; and 130 people had listened to the audio stream of the service through our website.  These are amazing numbers – thank you for tuning in!
• The noon teleconference call is back this week.  Please click the link provided to join by computer/ device or call the number provided to join the call.  The intent is to provide a place to talk with others as part of a wider community.  The link to join the call is 
  https://zoom.us/j/900622521
  Meeting ID: 900 622 521
  OR dial +1 929 205 6099 US (New York) and enter the following meeting number:  Meeting ID: 900 622 521
• Finally, I could use your help.  There are a lot of people on the front lines  who are working to keep others safe and healthy, some of whom I know personally.   I’d like your help in sending them a note or a card to say thank you for what they’re doing.  

If you could send such a card to our Martha’s Vineyard Hospital staff, in care of Denise Schepici; or to the teachers and staff at Tisbury School (or your own school), in care of John Custer (or your schools principal), I know that your card will be appreciated.
 
I know Firefighters and EMS personnel in NYC who are working in the midst of their difficult situation; and I know churches in NYC and in London who would love to hear from us.  If you’d like to write a card to NYC First Responders, Church of the Ascension or St. Pancras, please let me know, and I will give you the contact information.  Please make sure that you put your name, c/o Grace Church Vineyard Haven and the church’s address as the return address.
 
As always, this comes with my prayers for you.  God bless you for your strength and for your goodness.
 
Stephen+