Connection is defined in the dictionary as a “relationship in which a person, thing, or idea is linked or associated with something else.” We are hard wired to need connection and its importance is never more paramount than in our Christian church setting. It is especially experienced between parishioners each Sunday, with our youth and children in Sunday School, with our staff, and most importantly, with God. When looking to scripture to define connection further, we find many sightings including John 15:5, “I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who abide in me and I in them bear much fruit, because apart from me you can do nothing.” We are strengthened by the connection, not only with God, but with each other. Later also in John 15:12, we are instructed to “love one another as I have loved you.” As we gather to worship, we are met with connection to each other and to God from the moment we enter the door. From greeters, teachers, parishioners, clergy, and as we cross the threshold of the sanctuary, our connection to God becomes even more apparent as light streams in illuminating the beautiful hand carved wood cross and just beyond, the stained-glass butterfly.
Truly, connection is all around us and we take comfort in it. My own connection has grown with the youth, children, and families of St. Alban’s. It is a wonderful feeling to really get to know the youth of our church and connect into their lives and for them to feel the connection to share their hopes, dreams, fears, and life. Our ski trip really went a long way towards cementing that connection and it is heartwarming to see those bonds forming. Our adorable children always provide connection even from a glance. Their little faces light up my heart each Sunday as I hear all of them calling for me or wanting a hug or a high five. Which brings us to families, certainly at the heart of the beginnings of this connection concept. We learn how to relate, communicate, and connect from our family unit and this is only made stronger by our faith and commitment to God. The amazing families of St. Alban’s share themselves with us to grow their connection to God and each other. How can you connect? How does connection fulfill your life? As we ask ourselves these questions, we open ourselves to endless possibility.
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