Asking the Clergy: Congregants respond to in-person worship

As COVID-19 pandemic restrictions continue to be relaxed this spring, in-person services are increasingly returning to the sanctuaries of Long Island houses of worship, local clergy say. This week’s clergy discuss how congregants are reacting to gathering together in pews and social halls, in some cases for the first time in more than two years

The Rev. Jaye Brooks

Developmental minister, Unitarian Universalist Congregation at Shelter Rock, Manhasset

“I’m really feeling emotional,” one of our members said to me on a recent Sunday. His eyes glistened with unshed tears as he added, “Today’s the first time I’ve been back for two years.”

There is renewed energy and excitement in the return to on-site Sunday services after two years of online worship. I see this in the physical presence of this beloved community’s members and in the newcomers who are crossing the threshold for the first time. We are still being careful, wearing masks to sing. Some services have been outdoors. We’re multiplatform so that members who are at high risk of serious COVID-19 can continue to participate online.

But we are definitely back, with an awareness and appreciation of the blessings of community. We bring, as well, the learning from small-group Zoom sessions: speaking in turn, listening carefully, muting ourselves as we take in what someone else is saying. We’re a bit more intentional in how we greet one another, keenly aware that “How are you?” is no longer a casual inquiry.

Those who are able to gather in the same physical space are counting their blessings. Those who are able to participate online count theirs, too. We are one community. It is good to be together.

Rabbi Dennis S. Ross

Temple Am Echad, Lynbrook

Our congregation is reopening with even deeper appreciation for the relationships and community that sustain us.

"We're making up for lost time," said a mother at a recent, in-person, synagogue holiday family celebration, a child-centered event filling the large social hall with warmth, energy and connection. And this celebration was just one example of how important it is that our congregation — and faith communities everywhere — are returning, step-by-step, to social gatherings that address fundamental and deep emotional and spiritual needs.

COVID-19 denied our children, families, singles, seniors and more the contact that supports living full and meaningful lives. We are back indoors in strong numbers and “making up for lost time," just as that mother said.

To be sure, we stayed apart to protect our physical well-being, yet our spiritual well-being demands that we join in community.

And, of course, our congregation is working overtime to include those kept at home by continuing physical and health concerns. Yet, Temple Am Echad is to be counted among the growing number of synagogues and faith communities that are being renewed and restrengthened by people wanting to be with others. Our doors are open and people are coming for the spirituality that rises from relationships.

The Rev. Earl Y. Thorpe Jr.

Pastor, Church-in-the-Garden, Garden City

The response to our in-person services has been very positive. Yet, I understand that the resumption of in-person worship does not ensure that people will return and consistently attend worship services.

The truth is that churches face many challenges in attracting new people to their pews. Our church is no different.

Our approach has been to consistently offer a welcoming and warm worship atmosphere that is powerful, spirit-filled and cognizant of the reality of our lives (we require and provide masks for worship).

We also offer options to those who don’t feel comfortable returning to the sanctuary or cannot come to worship with us. Indeed, our church has broadened its appeal to many beyond our sanctuary (and throughout the nation) through our livestreaming. We believe that there should be options for everyone to partake in and participate in authentic worship.

The return to in-person worship presents significant opportunities and challenges to minister to God’s people as we negotiate this pandemic. Nevertheless, the Church-in-the-Garden has shown remarkable resiliency in remaining a beacon of hope for all to come and worship. We continue to meet people at the point of their spiritual needs.