In the classic Rogers and Hammerstein musical “Carousel,” the whole community comforts the young bride Julie when she is suddenly widowed, and their song of comfort begins, “Tho’ your dreams be tossed and blown, walk on, walk on. With hope in your heart, you’ll never walk alone, no you’ll never walk alone.”
That song has become an anthem. During the original 1945 Broadway run, many in the audiences who had a husband, a brother, a son or a lover fighting overseas, found solace in its meaning and its message. It’s been sung since in telethons for cures, human rights causes, cancer treatment centers, even in British soccer stadiums.
Why? Because it’s true. And we in the church can show that truth to one another and model it for the world that is filled with isolated, hurting, lonely people who need to know it.
Comfort, a word whose origins mean “with strength,” is a central function of the Christian community. Knowing you’re not alone gives one strength. During this “COVID culture” and these isolating and socially distant days, call upon the Good Shepherds of Bethesda, people dedicated to staying in touch, and daily reach out to someone near you.
Bob Dannals
Interim Rector