Felicia Urbanski
Since the pandemic began almost a year ago, our church has had, by necessity, to find ways to continue to connect as a spiritual community. "Zoom Church" quickly became our mode of Sunday worship, preceded by (and often followed by) lively conversation! Although as the worship leader, I try to keep the worship component under 45 minutes in length, the conversation component has been the time when our small rural church finds its soul. The depth of sharing has been incredible! Personal stories, struggles, joys, and humour have been mixed together in a blend of human sharing. We do "show and tell" with plants, with "Easter bonnets" (everything from "red hat society" wear to farming hats), and with delightful pets and children! In the course of this past year, our Ballinafad United Church has been a welcome addition to the Erin United Church family, as Ballinafad had to make the difficult decision to sell their building and amalgamate with us in Erin. Our online "community" has augmented to include beloved friends and family in various parts of Canada, England and the United States, as well as connecting with our two high school exchange students (from Belgium and Spain). Who knew we would become an "international sensation"! So the idea of "connecting with simple wonders" has been a lifeline to all of us during these challenging times....the simple wonders of a faith community that openly shares and supports one another....knowing that we always have this beloved circle to rely upon and to care. If this illustrates the inbreaking of the sacred within the secular, then bring it on! Thank you for this opportunity to share with you. Many blessings.
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