Greetings Beloveds,

I hope this message finds you well and staying safe. We have found ourselves giving greetings for each other’s safety in this era of a global pandemic, the effects of racial and social unrest and most recently, in the wake of hurricanes, tornados and other devastating weather events. Many of my neighbors in Westchester County were affected as were my colleagues in New Jersey. I hope that if you experienced any issues from the storm that you would reach out and let us know. Your safety is important to us. 

We expect to be opening our doors and greeting you in person for our ingathering and Water Communion. We ask that you wear a mask and keep social distancing practices. I will be greeting you with an elbow touch or a bow or my hand over my heart; I have adapted my greetings from a hug to one of these, for safety’s sake. I want you to be well and safe and I want to remain well and safe so that I can do this precious work and be with you all. Be sure to let me and each other know what your comfort level is in all of this. Communication is key to understanding, even as we are in the process of figuring it out along the way. 

As September is beginning, there are the back to business jitters with more news about the variants, especially with schools re-opening. We hold all of these intentions for safety and care, especially for our little ones who cannot yet be vaccinated. A prayer of concern for those immune-compromised as well as those hesitating to be vaccinated, but live with fear. Prayers for health care providers and essential workers. Let us hold in our hearts all those who are hurting and do what we can to help. We are a community of seekers for truth and wholeness. We come together for healing and to grow our faith and spiritual understanding. We offer a hand to help while also reaching for depth and growth and balance. Dare I say joy! There is excitement as new things are happening; I am excited to be with you, to get to know you--to journey together.

In all things be blessed, Beloveds!

Rev. Petra