Guest Blog by Christina Tweed

We just celebrated our Homecoming Sunday service. I don’t think it was how any of us hoped it would be… together in the sanctuary, even if it was limited capacity. But I am grateful. I am grateful for those who have our safety in the forefront of their minds in the decisions they make. I am grateful for a congregation that has supported each other through the past year and a half and will continue to be there for each other as we work through this current uptick in COVID cases in our community. I am also grateful for technology. I know, I know, shocking that the tech person likes technology, but hear me out!

Because of technology, we are able to watch services together and express our joy in the chat section during services even though we can’t be together in person. Because of technology, we can continue to have meetings, supportive covenant groups, and fun events like last year’s auction celebration. Technology continues to allow us to maintain our sense of community and even rekindle connections with those who are no longer near our physical sanctuary in a time when a sense of community and support is so important.

Over the past year and a half, I have been part of a covenant group (that began as a caring circle at the beginning of the pandemic) and it has been absolutely wonderful getting to know these people better. I had met most of them as members over the years, but seeing their faces, hearing about their lives, and supporting each other every week on Zoom has been grounding in these turbulent times. I encourage everyone who has been missing connection with other people during this pandemic to consider joining a covenant group. We can and will get through this, but it helps to have support.

Another way many members have found connection is through our Zoom Coffee Hour following services. While it is different from our regular in-person coffee hour, it helps build connections with fellow members, including some that you may not have had a chance to meet before. Since we have been having services and coffee hour online, it has allowed folks who are planning on moving here to begin building connections and joining our community. We’ve also been so happy to reconnect with folks who moved away, but have a deep connection to our community. Unlike covenant groups, you are likely to have different people in your group each week. It’s a chance to check in, reflect on the service, and hear stories from others. Our coffee hour hosts would love to see you there!

Staff and congregants are continually brainstorming ways to keep us all connected safely, and we will continue to do so during COVID and afterward. To keep up with everything that is being planned and offered, keep an eye on the Weekly Update. And, if you have questions about using technology to keep connected, always feel free to reach out to me at tech@quuf.org.