Random House dictionary defines time as the “indefinite continued progress of existence and events.” Ecclesiastes 3:1 reminds us that, “for everything there is a season and a time for every matter under heaven.”
Before our world was turned upside down with the coronavirus, that concept was exemplified in our Anglican Church calendar as each event was marked and celebrated in accordance with its respective time and church season throughout the year, both spiritual and temporal.
For the last two years, time has taken on a different persona, where the movement of scheduled activities is dependent upon the current circumstances and the monitoring of active coronavirus cases.
While being blessed with the resumption of in house Sunday morning worship, close fellowship is limited due to social distancing and mask wearing.
But this fall, in an effort to regain some sense of normalcy, we have taken a giant leap in faith in the organization and planning of some regular activities.
However, in setting a date for their functions, timing is merely speculative. We are forever cognitive that COVID-19 flare-ups are always possible, and that they would necessitate a lockdown; this has already occurred in other areas of our province.
Needless to say, despite any negativity, optimism has always prevailed here at St. John The Evangelist, Topsail.
Perseverance and prevailing positive attitude guided us during the recent three-day tentative preparation period for a flea market. Our most gratifying reward was seeing this activity going forward on its scheduled date of October 23rd.
Since our last two flea markets were cancelled due to COVID-19, we had many more items for sale, and of great variety, accumulated to offer. Most significant was one large table displaying Christmas paraphernalia exclusively.
As each person entered the hall, interested in viewing or buying what we offered, there was no hesitation in complying with the rule of showing a vaccine passport.
Strict health guidelines were also respected—masks on, touching and hugging off.
So, for the time being, while there are traces of COVID-19 in our midst, we must accept the truism, that to remain safe, there is no room for complacency.
There is a time to embrace
And a time to refrain from embracing.
Ecclesiastes 3:1
