Saying a little prayer

It was absolutely fierce outside on Sunday. Zipping out from the service after receiving communion, Christopher Powell and I were headed to the local nursing home to bring the Eucharist to them. It was about 20F with a 25mph wind.... nose and knuckles went to glowing very quickly.

There were 18 in the recreation room when we arrived. Most sat in wheelchairs around the double-length rectangular tables. The Lord's Prayer is always in order, as is a hymn or two, the Gospel for the day and a shortened homily. Everyone happily took communion, reminding each other to hold onto the whole wheat wafer long enough to "dip" and we finished by singing "He's Got the Whole World in His Hands". Chris treats these men and women very lovingly, with dignity - just the way I hope someone treats me should that time come.

"You sing good, honey" booms one resident, giving me a smiling seal of approval - high praise, indeed.

We say our goodbyes as one resident after another says thank you and waves; we take our leave back into the bitter elements.

I shuttle Chris back to church, head to deliver communion to a parishoner recovering from her second hip replacement. A retired nurse, being on the receiving end of attention and care does not come easy to her.... and she is learning a different kind of patience.

It was an honor to worship with all of these children of God today: in the church, in the facility, in the home. And I will remember them all again when I say my prayers tonight.........

Many thanks to Carol Reeves of Saint James Episcopal Church in Lancaster, PA who passed on the wonderful photo below!