Z-Notes 3/4/21

Greetings, Third Church Friends!

March roared in like a lion. In spite of the windy coldness, we allow optimistic thoughts to wonder across our minds—like we are approaching the end to this twelve-month-long Lenten Season 2020-21. Timidity still inhabits our emotional spaces; but maybe, just maybe…. I dare not even speak of that for which I hope. I’m not particularly superstitious, but who wants to test those spirits these days.

We remain grateful for all those front-line workers who have been serving so valiantly. The pic above captures one of my favorites: my daughter, Lydia. She’s actually a nursing student in Tucson, but when the “all hands on deck” command was bellowed, she responded. Mom and Dad and sibs are gushingly proud. As are so many of you who have family members in that same boat. Our signs of gratitude have flagged a bit of late, simply because we are ALL so weary. The stories I hear about the front-liners’ valiant efforts, and the deaths of some that have occurred in the line of duty, bring tears quickly to my eyes.

We are very carefully beginning to imagine what re-opening looks like at Third Church. We hear in one ear the impatient pleas of some of you, while in the other echoes appreciation for our continued caution. We know we walk a high-wire on the matter. You all (before I arrived) set a very high bar in terms of health metrics. We have not seen fit to change our measures at this point. We cherish your understanding.

We are holding our Annual Meeting this Sunday. Your Congregational Nominating Committee has not yet identified a slate of servant leaders for the Class of 2024, but they are busily about that work. This Sunday, I will be sharing an infomercial that I sprinkle with sermon dust about their important efforts. Not necessarily what I like to do, but you all need to be reminded of this crucial element of our communal life. Tune in for worship and stay for the meeting, too! No extra charge.

Blessings!
Pastor Zomermaand
pastorz@thirdpresbyterian.org
Office: 585-271-6513, ext. 105; Cell: 618-606-1053 (after hours; emergencies)