FROM THE EDITOR

...it’s impossible to thrive without connection.

I came across this statement in my readings, and was oddly drawn to the subtext of its meaning.

The article was about the impact of this pandemic life on the digitalization of nearly everything it seems, and prioritizing real connection strategically as we move forward. In it Forbes Council Member and Author Marzanne Oppel made mention of Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, from what was a 1943 presentation, “A Theory of Human Motivation”, by Abraham Maslow.

In short, Maslow presents a 5-tier pyramid in which the bottom four levels are foundational (basic/ physiological), while the fifth—the pinnacle—is the growth level: that place where we step out and grow to our own personal potential. However, the top is built and predicated upon the stability of the bottom four levels (needs): physiological, safety, belonging and love, and esteem. And that when everything is in place, we can thrive, or become our best self. The subtext, though, is that without those foundational needs, we limit ourselves.

And there’s the rub. For so many, this last year has so significantly impacted everything from love and security to home and health. How we choose to live day-to-day is a real challenge, with real implications.

In his latest column for the Katy Trail Weekly, Rector Chris Girata reminds us that “we live in a world in constant flux with constant need. Each one of us needs something we cannot provide ourselves, and each one of us can help meet the needs of someone else...we are not meant to live alone and isolated, but together and in community. We are meant to connect with one another, help one another, and lift one another up.”

Connecting and lifting, then, is what Oppel goes on to present in the article above: excellent ways in which to pursue real connection; many of which we have employed here in working to maintain parish community during this socially- distanced time. But as Christians, our greatest connection with one another was missing—that connection which came with Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross and subsequent resurrection.

Chris goes on to say, “the promise of Easter is one that can inspire each of us as we navigate our new post-pandemic world...this Easter, we have the opportunity to learn once more that the power of faith is the power to see beyond the pain of today to the hope of tomorrow.”

I love the cover of this issue of The Archangel. There exists in it the representation of so many things for me: that community and life at Saint Michael are alive and well, that there is intention in action: both in the “Home Lenten Altars” campaign, but also in the individual choice to take part, the rich and royal purple color reminding us of Lent and the path of Christ towards the cross—but that we are ever-nearer also then to the hopefulness of the His resurrection, and the love of God in our lives.

While “the numbers” have been in decline here in the U.S. after the second surge, India posted its most deadly day this week, while much of Europe is reeling. All that is to say, we live in a constant need for now is the time. We do not know when this will pass, so each day, now is the time to care for each other, now is the time to pick up the phone and say hello to family and friends, now is the time to step outside of ourselves and see how we can help those who are most vulnerable. Now is the time...

SOME COMMUNITY HIGHLIGHTS Just a few ways to join in, and enrich yourself and others

APR 6-27 The Enneagram Intensive: Triads & Spiritual Growth, p20 APR 6-30 Easter season coat drive, p20 APR 17 OPENING DAY, Saint Michael’s Farmers Market! p13 APR 18 Saint Michael 101, p10 APR 18 Register kids for Vacation Bible School (June 7-11) APR 25 SMP presents “Chanticleer” Concert, p25 Listen to the SMAA Easter podcast, back cover

Check out the parish calendar on pages 18-22 for many other ways to be a part and stay connected!