Our liturgy this weekend opens with the words of Jesus to his disciples – and to us – “Do not let your hearts be troubled!” The response most of us might make would be – “Easy for you to say, Jesus!” It is difficult to feel any differently when we are inundated with news of illness, death, unemployment, mounting debt, food shortages, closing businesses, and hardship for so many people world- wide. But we need to let those words touch our hearts and believe. Perhaps on this Mother’s Day weekend, we need not mourn our loss but rediscover hope.

• If you have a garden space, browse the garden shops and supermarkets to buy something to plant – if even one tomato plant for your deck or patio. Most stores offer outside shopping and social distancing is possible with face masks.
• If you live in an apartment or condo complex, consider driving to one of the Town parks,  Five Rivers or the Rail Trail to enjoy the earth coming back to life. Social distancing is possible. if walking is not an option for you, your car with the windows open or a park bench can be life giving. You can watch the Hudson River from our Hudson River Park in South Bethlehem – and maybe you will see the eagles.
• We will have First Communions, Confirmations. graduations. weddings, proms, family and friend gatherings, picnics and parades, sports, theater, and concerts again.
• We will gather for liturgy and prayer again. Our hearts will not stay troubled.

Creation Care Team contacts: Jeanne Schrempf or Marie Myer