Reflection from the UK

Every week when we send out the Synod Scene we include a notice titled “What’s Your Story?” in which we ask for reflections from members of our diocese; reflections on our individual experiences of the pandemic. We haven’t gotten very many responses. I think people are mainly shy. So I thought I would write one of my own this week...

My husband Richard (rector at St. John the Evangelist) and I have been working from home since March. We’ve had our ups and downs with the limitations of the pandemic, like everyone else, but have been managing fine. Then in June, things took a tragic turn. Richard’s father, David, passed away. It was a call we had always dreaded, since all Richard’s family lives in the UK, but to get such news knowing what COVID-19 has done to international travel was an added blow. Long story short, however, the family has been able to make it work and we have come to England. We are self-isolating for 14 days, coming out just in time for the funeral, and will have to do the same on our return unless restrictions change.

There’s a lot that can be said about grieving in a time of pandemic. Perhaps that’s a topic for another reflection. Here, though, I just want to say how grateful I am for what this experience is teaching me about interdependence. It’s happening on a global scale, but also for us personally on a very practical, immediate level. We literally would not be able to be here if it weren’t for the help and support we are receiving. Dear, long-time friends are caring for my mother while we’re gone. Neighbours are watching our house, collecting our mail and mowing our lawn. Colleagues and parishioners are taking point with the work at St. John’s. The synod office is letting me work somewhat sporadically and very remotely. Richard’s sister, Sarah, has moved out of her UK apartment so we can self-isolate before the funeral. Groceries were waiting for us here and will be waiting for us when we get home. So many people are praying. I can honestly say I have never had to depend on others in quite this way before. As a born and bred Albertan who values her independence, I find it ever so slightly uncomfortable. But what a gift; what an opportunity to let God knock down a wall or two in his ongoing renovation of my soul.

And don’t feel too sorry for us, isolating in this little apartment. We’re not completely alone! Sarah (with the aid of a bowl of nuts outside the patio window) has made friends with the local pigeons and squirrels. So we get visitors every day who don’t know or care anything about pandemics, only that the nuts keep coming.

So that’s our story this week. I really would love to hear yours…

Submitted by the Rev. Deacon Shelly King, Admin Assistant at the Synod Office