On June 14 the Parish of St. Alban's, Richmond welcomed Archbishop Melissa Skelton who was participating in the online live-stream worship broadcast on the parish's Facebook page. Although the parish is still officially closed, with her impending retirement in early 2021, this was the archbishop's last scheduled archiepiscopal visit to the parish. With only 7 people allowed to be present how could the rest of the congregation be involved?
Online worship at the parish has been live-streamed (yes with a number of glitches but fixed now), however on June 14 the number of online viewers (participants) climbed to 49, wow. St. Alban's vicar, the Reverend Paula Porter Leggett suggested there be a drive-by opportunity for those wishing to share their best wishes with Archishop Skelton in person. Members of the congregation, drove to the parish, lined up in the lane and waited their turn to drive by, show their affection and share their gratitude for a COVID-19 visit. Archbishop Skelton was happy to participate as these great photos by Larry Scherben, ODNW illustrate.
(prepared with files from Larry Scherben)
IMAGES
- Upon Archbishop Skelton's arrival, vicar, the Reverend Paula Porter Leggett and the archbishop model proper physical distancing
- The sanctuary party is in place for the live-streaming of Morning Prayer on June 14
- Archbishop Skelton meets with some members of the parish on the boulevard prior to the drive-by greetings.
- Archbishop Skelton cradles a mug for this rather unorthodox Coffee Hour
- The drive-by begins
- Archbishop and Vicar meet and greet
- Archbishop and driver smile for the photographer.
Photos: Larry Scherben, ODNW - Camera One Photography