When this issue was being prepared, no one could predict what we would be facing at Christmas this year. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, I expect that our plans will need to be modified for protective bubbles and such.
Of all the things that I will miss the most this year will be the Christmas Day communion service in my congregation. This simple gathering of a few of the faithful to sing some carols, hear the Christmas gospel proclaimed, and share communion together is my favourite part of Christmas.
Of course, I also cherish memories of many other Christmas traditions that I’ve enjoyed over the years. I will try to find creative ways to continue some this year.
This issue does not provide a script for the perfect Christmas pageant during a pandemic or offer a substitute for community candlelight caroling on Christmas Eve, although we do provide an Epiphany blessing for your consideration (p. 13).
Instead our feature, A COVID Christmas, helps us to consider what it means to be an incarnation people as Christmas once again invites and marks God’s participation in our story and the truth of incarnation (literally taking on flesh).
With Rev. André Lavergne as our guide, as incarnation people, we have the opportunity to expand our Christmas planning and explore the paths we might take so that we can embody the Christmas gospel through how we hear and tell and live it.
May you experience Christ’s living presence among us this Christmas season and help others to do the same.
Glimpses
Robb Wilson expands our perceptions about the ways the gospel can be communicated, (p. 6).
We do have it within us to be the kind of church that many of us long for and dream about, (p. 9).
Xenophobia and systemic racism can affect immigration to Canada, when it comes to the name you were given back home being officially accepted in Canada, (p. 28).
Kenn Ward, Editor
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