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Travelling Companions


Even with all the busyness of last Sunday, a few of us still managed to fit in our first Lenten Walk. The air was cold, but our hearts were warm as we walked and enjoyed each other’s company.

This week I was reminded about why we started these Lenten Walks. It was five years ago this week that the World Health Organization officially declared covid a global pandemic. I arrived at Sunnybrook almost a year into the pandemic and we were still restricting our gathering times for worship and other things. It was difficult getting to know everyone. Most congregants worshipped online and when we were in person, we were in small groups, behind masks, and at a distance from one another. So, for the season of Lent that year, we assigned one person at a time to go for a walk with me (sometimes Allan joined in) on Sunday afternoons. Safely outside, we could be apart but together and get to know one another, one step at a time.

I enjoyed the experience so much that we have continued our Lenten Walks each year. Of course, now everyone is welcome. The more the merrier. Our practice has become a walking metaphor for the Lenten journey, as we take the time to accompany one another through this season. We are still getting to know each other as we share the trails and our stories.

As we move into week two of Lent, the scriptures invite us to think about courage and vulnerability. It seems that finding our courage to do what we are meant to do requires a certain amount of vulnerability. We need to be willing to open ourselves to
another, to show our authenticity, to expose our weaknesses along with our strengths. It is good to know that we don’t walk the trails alone. We have the reassurance of each other’s good company to help us find our courage for whatever comes our way. See you on the trails.

Peace and joy,
Nancy