Gatherings of your people, Almighty One, are on the minds of many of us.  We yearn for hugs and laughter shared with abandon.  We crave walking freely into large groups of people safely.  If this pandemic has taught us any lasting lesson, it is that we shall not take for granted the blessing of being surrounded by and breathing in and out the same air as those who give meaning to our days.  As we work toward a new normal, continue to journey with us.  Grant us patience and the grace to be kinder as we continue to be concerned for the health and well-being of all your children.  We pray this in your holy name. Amen.