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Church Again


Maybe I should take a temporary break from posting about things I'm reading to write about something else for a change.  How about church?  Today was the second Sunday we were permitted to return to church in person again.  Last week I was there just with a few of my children, today the whole family was back.

It's not quite the same, of course.  Everyone is required to wear masks.  And of course there is social distancing enforced, with many pews blocked off.  For now we are permitted to operate at only 25% of capacity, which in our small parish means no more than 31 people present.  (Though we can sneak in a few more if need be by having my family sit up in the choir loft with me.)

To make sure we don't exceed the limit, we have set up a system for people to reserve a spot if they want to attend, which they do by contacting yours truly.  I then keep a list.  So far it hasn't been a problem, though--I don't think word has fully gotten around yet that we are again open.  Last week there were 11 people (plus some Meilaenders in the choir loft), today 15 (again, plus Meilaenders up above).

For me, the most disappointing thing is that there is no congregational singing permitted.  I miss the music, which is an important part of worship for me.

On the other hand, it means I don't have very much organ practicing to do--just a bit of pre- and post-service music, and something for background during communion.  So I don't have to work too hard at it.

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