View From the Legislature

Easter has come during times of war, during times of financial depression and yes, even during times of pandemic. And while many in society traditionally celebrate Easter with friends and family, this year we are being asked to minimize our social interactions and to look at new ways to celebrate as we practice physical distancing to help slow the spread of COVID-19.

This new reality isn’t ideal or what anyone had hoped for yet all around us people, businesses and organizations are working to adapt as everyone does their part to reduce the spread of the virus. Many churches have moved to online services and are continuing their work within the community to assist those that are traditionally in their congregation as well as others who are in need of assistance and support. And while it is often noted that the church is more than simply a building, the inability to gather at Easter is particularly disappointing for Christians.

Despite that challenge, we live in a time where technology allows us to connect in a way that would have been unimaginable only a few years ago. This will allow connections to continue to happen. But the impact is different on everyone. Those that already had minimal mobility or contact with others are especially impacted, such as those in care homes or in hospital.

Yet, even though this Easter will be very different, the core message of Easter, of hope and of renewal, remains as true today as ever. And it may be that it is a message that is more welcomed than at any time in our recent memory. So while things around us have changed, Easter remains the same. Perhaps its timing and the message that it brings couldn’t be better.

Together with my wife Kim and son Malachi we wish you a blessed Easter and one that brings with it, in a time of concern and uncertainty, peace and joy.