I still can’t believe it’s been six weeks since we had to close the church building and move all of our services and most of our programs online. One day we were preparing for the Interdependence Day service that Abby, Carolyn, and I had been planning for weeks and the next, we were moving everything to Zoom and no longer able to gather face-to-face. I know this time has been hard on all of us and I want to offer my love and sympathy for all who have suffered loss – the loss of a loved one or friend, the loss of a job or source of economic support, and the loss of the physical contact with family, church, and community that plays such a vital role in helping us find meaning and hope, especially during a time like this. Physical distancing is vitally important for keeping us healthy and safe. But it is taking a toll on our hearts and our spirits and I want to acknowledge the struggles many are experiencing, myself included. But if there is a silver lining I have discovered from all the physical distancing I am having to do, it is to be reminded of just how much community and connection matter in my life. Too often, I take for granted those circles of connection and community that enrich my life. Maintaining physical distance from those connections has shown me how precious they are and how determined I am not to take them for granted now and in the future. And there is one more thing I’ve learned from this crisis. Physical distance does not have to mean spiritual distance, communal distance, or social distance. In fact, I’m no longer going to use the term “social distancing,” replacing it instead with “physical distancing.” Being apart physically does not mean we have to be distant socially or spiritually, and our church community is proof positive of the power of connections and bonds that transcend the physical distance we must maintain to keep our bodies safe and healthy. Let me conclude by thanking all of you for your love and commitment to the church during this very trying time. Your words of support and encouragement mean the world to me and the way all of you are supporting the church by volunteering for our many ministries and by sharing your precious financial resources has been nothing short of amazing! All I can say is “THANK YOU!” Many Blessings, Tim