Connections with Kelly

Greetings from my corner of the quarantine world! My name is Kelly Murray—aka “Mama” to my son, Simon. I’ve worshipped at WACC in-person and virtually (#VirtualWorship!) since the world entered this new era. My family within the walls of my home is made up of my husband (Jon), my sweet dog (Frida), and The One Who Calls Me Mama. We live in Olmsted Falls, but Simon and Frida are the only native Buckeyes of the family. I grew up in the Disciples church, and I am a proud Bethany College graduate.

In this bizarre time of physical isolation and uncertainty, anxiety, fear, and doubt, I have put these strong feelings onto paper in the form of watercolors and sketches. Taking the time to do slow, thoughtful actions has helped me find a bit of inner peace and stay grounded. It’s sad and scary to think about the world that Simon is going to grow up in. Am I working hard enough to leave a world for him that is fair, just, and kind? Will the world he inherits be full of love and equality? Painting these fears and hopes leaves me with a piece of concrete evidence to hold, knowing I can be an agent of transformation in the world.

During a recent personal meditation, I held out my hands as if I were waiting to receive a blessing or communion. It felt odd and almost funny knowing that many are receiving blessings via their in-home Wi-Fi signal as they literally hold the church in their hands. This image led me to sketch out this painting of open hands, waiting to receive communion while viewing an image of the church’s communion table on a phone. Even though our world is physically separated, we are blessed to worship online and participate in communion.

One day, we’ll gather again at a familiar table, but for now, our hands will join in #VirtualWorship as we receive the blessings of bread and cup.

Kelly