Be respectful of others this Easter

Easter Sunday is upon us and with it comes many challenges masked behind the pandemic.

Last year Easter was celebrated under a nationwide shutdown. Churches were closed, services moved online, and many Easter egg hunts and other such activities were canceled.

This year things are going to be a little awkward for some. A year into the COVID-19 pandemic and everything is changing. Vaccines are reaching higher percentages of the population and many churches are opening up, albeit to limited capacities in some places and full capacity in others. Some have chosen to remain online for now.

Even though the state has lifted the mask mandate and is allowing businesses to open at full capacity, it has been left to local and individual discretion whether or not masks and social distancing are required. This is where things can get a little tricky.

Each congregation has its own set of requirements for attendance at Easter services. Each church and other organizations holding Easter egg hunts, cantatas, and other celebrations and activities likewise have their own rules. Many in this area, but not all, still require face coverings, social distancing, and frequent hand washing.

Since Easter services are traditionally among the most well attended, many churches will be struggling to accommodate larger than normal crowds while at the same time following health and safety guidelines. This is where you can help.

Please keep in mind that no matter what side of the mask issue you fall on that it is important to be mindful and respectful of all people, especially those you disagree with. It’s bad enough that mask (or lack of mask) shaming takes place on social media. Don’t let it happen in our houses of worship. If your church requires a mask, wear it. If a mask isn’t required, don’t get on someone’s case because they chose to wear one.

The same goes for seating. If a pew is blocked off to allow for social distancing, don’t violate the rules and sit there. Be respectful and take an open seat.

If you do not agree with your church’s rules, Easter Sunday is probably not the time to be voicing your opinion, especially to a pastor who is already stressed enough. Save it for another time, privately.

It’s kind of ironic that people need to be reminded to use the Golden Rule in church, but to be sure it is necessary. Jesus taught in the Bible to “do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” It’s a sad state of affairs if that can’t be accomplished inside his church, let alone anywhere else in public.

It also serves as a gentle reminder that this simple act of civility will help all of us as we transition out of the pandemic and back into normal routines. Not every person, business, or church is in the same boat. We all have unique circumstances and concerns to accommodate and it behooves every one of us to be respectful of that. So let’s bear with one another and together we will get through this pandemic and onto a life fully lived. – J.S.

(This is an editorial that ran in the Fredericksburg Standard-Radio Post on March 31, 2021.)