We’llget through crisis
The strong bonds woven through the communities will be required to overcome the challenges thrown up by the coronavirus pandemic.
That is the view of Rev Benjamin Abeledo, the minister at Blairgowrie Parish Church, who made the comment in the wake of scores of churchrelated events – including upcoming Easter services – across all denominations being cancelled.
The move was sanctioned by religious leaders in reaction to calls by the government to curtail all non-essential social contact as efforts to limit the potentially lethal impact of highly-infectious COVID-19 throughout the country continue.
In an open letter to church members and people in the wider area, Rev Abeledo said: “This is likely to be a challenging few weeks, or even months, for all of us.
“Some of us are concerned about our own health and some of us are concerned about the health of others whom we love.
“Many of us, I am sure, are concerned about the profound economic impact that this current crisis may have for our families.
“Many are, indeed, anxious about events which feel outside of our control.
“I understand all those concerns, and I share them – but I am hopeful that, in the midst of this crisis, our community within Blairgowrie will support and care for one another.”
Mr Abeledo – who was inducted in June last year – continued: “I am also hopeful that this will be a time when our church, you and me and others who share our Christian faith, can be a distinct witness in a society that is afraid.
“In all of this, please remember to follow the government advice – look after yourself, be sensible and, of course, turn to the Lord and pray.”
He went on: “We have many strong bonds in our parish community and now is the time to lean on them.
“I am hopeful that we will be able, with the help of God, in the coming weeks and months, to demonstrate what it means to live as those who, above all things, bear witness to a gracious, loving and risen saviour.
“May our thoughts and prayers turn to Him in humility and faith and place our trust in Him.”