When I was a young girl, growing up in the warmth and security of our family home, I often heard my mother use the axiom “All’s well that ends well.” I believe that it was her favourite saying.
Random House dictionary describes it as a self evident truth, but it takes many life experiences to fully comprehend the significant message that this proverb conveys; not least among them is the exciting extension of our music endeavours (as a pleasant aftermath of the COVID-19 upheaval).
During this combative pandemic period, we suffered the same depression as so many other faith communities with limited personal contact, and with makeshift online devotion. This was also a time in our church ministry when we were awaiting a permanent rector. In the meantime, there were several who served intermittently, most of whom were retired ministers. Each had their own special gifts of conveying the Gospel message.
During this period around January of 2021, we were graced with the presence of Archdeacon Greg Mercer. He guided us through this unprecedented crisis in the life of the Church—the pandemic lockdowns. He conducted Sunday services until the permanency of our current rector, Canon Jotie Noel, in the fall of the same year.
I have vivid memories of my first recollection of Archdeacon Greg in our midst. As I hurried up the nave on Sunday mornings, often late, he was already ushering parishioners to their pews, rattling out some joyous melody on the guitar while singing a favourite hymn. It certainly was a catalyst to boost everyone’s morale, while momentarily evading an anxious thought.
After the virus has somewhat subsided, Archdeacon Greg offered to introduce and teach a family ukulele program for parishioners here at St. John the Evangelist. The idea was appreciated, and things soon got under way.
Today, we have a very enthusiastic ukulele group of ten. They are representative of our whole church family, ranging in age from five years right up the spectrum to the very mature. Organized practice periods are conveniently structured to coincide with the conclusion of Sunday worship.
We are especially proud of our ukulele band. They are very visible in all church activities, and they entertain at special functions. We owe much gratitude to Archdeacon Greg, who is a significant part of our church family and has helped us prove that.
All’s well that ends well.
