All Saints and the Election

Dear Grace,

This time of year is seen by many to be a liminal time, where the boundary between the world of the living and the world of the dead is thin.   It evokes both fear and a sense of the sacred.  Last night, children and adults dressed up, many in scary costumes like ghosts, vampires, and zombies.   With Halloween we play with fear, indulge it, and make it into something fun.  Then between today and Sunday, people around the world will celebrate the Diwalli, Day of the Dead, All Saints Day, and All Souls Day.  This is sacred time when we bring light to the coming darkenss and remember loved ones who have died.  At Grace, we will celebrate All Saints this Sunday.  You are encouraged to bring photos of loved ones to place on the altar, and we will call out their names during the service.

But this time is liminal in another way.  We also stand on the cusp of what may be the most important election in US history, prompting palpable fear and anxiety.   Both Republicans and Democrats agree that the soul of our nation is at stake.  And both are deeply afraid of what a win by the other side will portend. 

This is a time for the people of faith to remember what is holy.  To pray and discern a way forward, regardless of who wins.  Because no matter who wins, our division will not cease.  It will only deepen, and what ills our nation will still need healing. No matter who wins, there will be a period of civil unrest ahead.  Now is the time to be courageous, and not let our anxiety or fear diminish our capacity to act for good in this world.  Now is the time to pray for that courage. 

If you feel called to join us, we will have several opportunities next week to gather and pray. 

The sanctuary will be open Tuesday, Nov. 5, from 7pm-9pm for silent prayer.   We will have a specific Compline for the Eve of the Election beginning at 7:30pm.  During that time, we will have liturgy, readings and song.

Then on Wednesday you can join us for our weekly Wednesday Gathering from 10am-11:30am where we will have Bible study, Eucharist and Healing Prayer. 

We will also have a Silent Prayer Vigil from noon-1pm on Wednesday. 

Join us if you feel called to do so.

Peace,

Rev. Eric