By Elena Jeffus

I began painting recently as a way to process my feelings about world events. I work in a retirement community and the isolation of the seniors has been devasting. In a recent conversation, one of my residents shared that she now watches church online. She wears her pajamas because there is no one to see her or to be with her. She has no community.

That touched my heart in many ways, that this resident found meaning and hope in online worship, alone in her pajamas. But was letting go of the ritual of dressing up. Matthew 18:20 came to mine and made me rethink community, gathering, church … and even communing with God and each other in today’s environment. There is hope because there is science and technology. We are God’s creation, and we are adaptable.

This essay was written by Elena Jeffus and originally published in House of Comfort, published by Retreat House Spirituality Center book.

Elena lives in Dallas. She is wife to Stephen and mother to Simon and Annamarie. She works in senior living and holds specialized training in dementia care. Pre-pandemic, Elena frequented live music events, theater and art venues. While adjusting to a new way of life, she has discovered the meditative quality of painting and long walk.