As we have for the past two weeks, Grace Church will continue to open its doors this week for all who seek a place of prayer, warmth, and respite on Capitol Square. Thanks to parishioners who have agreed to serve as hosts on Monday and Tuesday. If you’re in the square drop by Grace to warm up and say hello. We’d love to meet you.

We’ve been struggling throughout the last two weeks to keep up with events and most of the time we’ve been reacting; dealing with situations after they’ve already begun to develop. We don’t know what’s going to happen this week, but we’ve been overwhelmed by the positive response to our efforts to extend our hospitality.

We know how difficult a time this is for many people. It’s been difficult for us, as well. Addressing the situation on the ground while we are also trying to go about the regular work of the church–finalizing budgets, preparing service bulletins, trying to get everything organized for Shrove Tuesday, Ash Wednesday, and Lent. Well, we’ve been overwhelmed.

I’m grateful to our staff who have been gracious in their flexibility; grateful to to parishioners who didn’t say anything about the dirty floors of the nave today, and have been supportive of our efforts to reach out in these past weeks.

I’m also deeply appreciative to the leadership of Bishop Steven Miller and my clergy colleagues who have offered their support and prayers.

Keep praying for us, for all of us in Madison’s Capitol Square, across the country and the world who are seeking to speak out for justice in the name of God.