I AM PALMER

I am Palmer is a series of articles written by parishioners at Palmer Memorial Episcopal Church about their experiences in the time of COVID-19. In this series, we are hearing from medical professionals, educators, students, public health experts, parents of school-age children and others who are finding ways to cope and thrive in our challenging times.

I am the Canon to the Ordinary of the Diocese of Texas and attend Palmer with my son when I have a Sunday off. Managing responses to the pandemic from a diocesan perspective has been challenging. The Bishop has lots of responsibility, but his authority isn't absolute. So there are folks who think the Diocese is being too restrictive and those who think the guidelines are not strict enough. 

I have been fortunate to be able to work at home, caring for my 14 month old with the help of my husband and his mother. Although it might be strange to imagine, much of my job has continued on as normal. Churches looking for a new rector are anxious to find leadership to guide them through this difficult time. 

In addition, I am often the one people call when there are problems or crises at parishes or church schools. Those haven't ceased to occur and of course the pandemic has created new challenges as organizations have had to adapt long settled ways of doing things.

It has been encouraging, though, to see how congregations across the Diocese, including Palmer, have found ways to continue to worship, to build community, and to serve during these difficult times. I continue to pray for our clergy and lay leaders, for frontline workers, for all affected by the virus, and especially for those who are isolated in this time.