Has something shifted lately? Is there something different in the air? Maybe not for everyone, I get that. But widespread availability of COVID vaccines has made a big difference for many people’s energy levels and willingness to gather with others. I was getting anxious about how few items we had for Joy’s weekly announcements over the last few months. Not anymore! We have a lot of events taking shape over the next 3 - 4 months.
We’re going to start with re-gathering this month: re-gathering for worship in-person, re-gathering for eating and fellowship, re-gathering for art and other creative expressions. We’re going to push these events outside as weather permits, because everyone’s willingness to take risks is different. But having just gathered mostly outdoors with Lutherans from all around Tulsa this past Sunday afternoon, I can’t wait!
As we re-gather, we’re also going to recognize that the last year and a half has been deeply traumatizing for many folks for many different reasons. Joy folks were largely spared the direct effects of this pandemic, but many indirect effects took their toll on each of us in different ways. We’ll be looking at offering healing services and other events that help us cope with the lingering effects. Maybe there will even be a group that forms around recovery, and existing groups may put some energy into that, too.
Finally, we’ll look at re-union this fall under the banner of Joy’s 35 anniversary. Joy was formed around the same time as the ELCA was, and it will be a perfect time to look back but also to the future and what God is already doing with us at Joy, in our neighborhoods and beyond. Hopefully by September or October, everyone will be as eager as I am to get together in person and face-to-face.
Pastor Jon
