For many people the new year starts the week after Labor Day. Summer (in as much as there was a summer in the COVID year of 2020) is over, and it's time to get down to business. We are living through one of the most stressful times in modern history---and we are tired. Practicing regular and real self and spiritual care is crucial if we are to have the energy ...
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In my tradition (Presbyterian Church USA), our liturgy in worship is very responsive. A lot of call and response and unison prayers. Many, many opportunities to share our germs with one another. As we think about what worship will look like when we are able to return to worshipping in person, in addition to skipping the congregational singing for now, we will also need to limit the verbal responses. ...
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As churches begin to consider what worship post-pandemic will look like, many are looking at gathering in smaller groups (often at people's homes) before coming together as a whole. The beginning of a new group and new ways of being together is an excellent time to establish some rituals that will not only help bond the group, but also help to keep people safe. I am a huge hugger and absolutely ...
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Check out this video on a ritual for naming your grief and get further instruction in the text below. https://youtu.be/vWvx5RVAAag Items you'll need: a small box or container paperwriting instrumentsymbol of your loss Light a candle to signify the light of Christ. Invite God into the space. You might choose to sing Kum ba ya (which means Come by Here). If you're familiar with the song, you know there are a ...
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Rituals don't always have to be super serious. They can be fun...even playful. And a little play is good for all of us, especially now. Since most of us are at home and sitting down at the table together more than ever, why not add a prayer ritual to dinner? Or maybe just adjust one that you already have. Here's one that can be more meaningful than ...
Read MoreAs important as it is to nurture our faith, encourage one another and keep a positive attitude, we must also make space for the grief we are feeling during this time. And the grief felt in the midst of this pandemic runs a wide gamut. It goes from grieving the loss our twice-weekly exercise class community to the cancellation of a milestone event or a regular tradition to the loss ...
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People are coming up with great ways to celebrate birthdays in these shelter-in-place Covid-19 times. Zoom parties, drive-by parades, balloon bouquets and surprise lawn decorations are all being employed to celebrate those special days. But like everything else in these Covid-19 times, not getting to gather in person with the people we love is a bummer. Here's a short ritual you can do at home to celebrate you. I've attached ...
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When we suffer a loss, it's important to recognize and honor that loss. With the current restrictions around gathering together, many are being robbed of that critical piece of the grieving process. Over the next few weeks, I'll be sharing ideas for rituals to remember those we have lost when we aren't able to participate in larger ceremonies and observances. I hope you'll share your ideas as well. Note: ...
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The mandate to stay at home and the cancelling of public gatherings is robbing us of much-needed rituals. So each Tuesday, Doubting Believer will bring you rituals to celebrate, mourn and mark special occasions from home. Most of 2020's high school and college graduates will not have traditional graduation ceremonies this year. It is still an important transition in the life of young people, and it needs to be observed and ...
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