Darlings, what we have here in Massachusetts is a good old-fashioned blizZARD, emphasis on the last syllable. The weather people are calling it a BOMB CYCLONE, which is such an overdramatic touch I can’t help but laugh.
BOMB CYCLONE!
Lord Jesus, what will they think of next.
We’ve had to close the church but our roof is new and I have confidence in it, although of course I’m worried about all our folks and their kids and their chickens — parishioners down the street are bringing theirs in to wait it out in the basement. This seems like it would be pretty challenging so I’ll probably head over tomorrow to take a peek and offer some libations or cabbage soup.
Ministry does go on even in the worst of weather conditions, which reminds me of a friend who had a commital to do today in New York state, where the weather is just as bad as it is here in eastern MA. I wondered if perhaps there was a would be a way for her to remain in a car and say the appropriate prayers over a loudspeaker while all the bereaved cracked their windows to hear her, but of course that was just wishful thinking trying to spare her a mouthful of snow and the mourners a mighty bleak farewell with possible pneumonia after the fact. What a sorry time to lose a loved one, and my heart is with them.
God bless the gravediggers, too, which is a grim job indeed, and how do they even get through the frozen ground? Truly a job that “someone’s gotta do,” for which I hope they are very well-compensated.
My colleague wondered about wearing a stole over her coat and I didn’t think that was necessary at all, given that it would take all her attention just to read the rites in wet squalling winds and she didn’t need a stole flying all over the place and potentially wacking her about the head. A mutual friend recommended putting her readings in plastic covers. Those of you who have done the priestly honors in such dire conditions, would you comment about how you handled the elements and your prayerbooks or folios? I am not sure what I would do — does a Kindle work in the wet snow? I hope I never have to find out.
But let’s talk outerwear. I know that some of you serve in traditions that include the cloak, a mighty fancy garment about which I admit some degree of envy.
I will have to make do with my funnel neck style overcoat which did prove exceptionally warm and protective during a recent very cold commital.
It looks similar to the Cole Haan number above, which I saw on sale at Zulily today right here. (I buy a lot of things from Zulily and I recommend them for deals. Always let Google be your friend and double check the price other sites because sometimes Zulily isn’t the bargain it claims to be. You can’t return things and they take awhile to arrive but overall I have been very happy with my purchases and customer service. I’ve made out with some excellent deals over the years and very few disappointments)
A funnel neck is elegant and classic and professional. It renders a big bulky scarf unnecessary and one could, if one wanted, drape a stole nicely around it.
Next up: hats!
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