Marathon Day

I was planning to post this afternoon about the Boston Marathon.  I usually do since it gives me the chance to pretend to be a sports reporter and post pictures of the race.  I may still post those pictures but not today.  Today I am posting the letter I wrote to the congregation this evening while keeping the church open for drop ins.  It has been quite a day.  Blessings and prayers to you all...

 

 

Dear Members and Friends,

I watched the Boston Marathon, as I always do, from the steps of First Congregational Church in Natick. As most of you know, it was a beautiful day. I marveled at the number of people both running and watching. As the athletes went by I couldn’t help but be impressed by the strength of the human body and the human spirit.

As you know, the Marathon didn’t end the way it began and now we are all left to grapple with the act of violence that has marred such a great and peaceful event. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you, with the runners, the victims, and the many volunteers and emergency workers who have now been called into service. Right now we do not know who did this or why. Right now, for many of us, the feeling of shock and grief are just about all we can handle.

When events like this happen, I try to reach out to the people I love. I try to find people to talk to. I try to listen and I try to pray. I urge you to do the same. When a tragedy occurs it draws us closer and we find strength in that. If I can be any help—or if the church can be of any help—let me know. I would love to hear from you. Also, tomorrow the church will be open from 9am-11:30am if you want to sit and think or pray in the silence of our sanctuary. I will be in the office if you would rather chat. We can even talk about everything but the Marathon if you want to. Whatever helps.

So hang in there. Hug each other. Reach out to those you can. Accept the fact that others will reach out you. Show that our human race is capable of beautiful things. I and the church are around if you need us. Remember—wherever you are—that you are not alone.

Yours in Faith and Hope,

Adam