Shall We Gather at the River?

Sometime back in the middle of winter, a group of people who care about New Glasgow gathered at Glasgow Square to share what they value about our town. Naturally, the conversations were wide and varied, but nearly every group had something to say about the prominence of the East River. Due to well thought out strategies, and investment in the infrastructure, I think we mostly agreed that the river is an asset! Commerce and concerts, conversations and competitions all happen at the river. 
 
This weekend the river comes alive as it plays host to the annual “Race on the River” dragon boat festival.  Survivors and their families, corporations and businesses take their turn and stroke to the beat of the same drum in an attempt for a better placement than last year.  They raise funds for several organizations, but mostly people gather because it matters.  The organizations being supported, the people associated with them, the goal to raise funds for worthy causes, all provide ample reason for the race. For many, it is an annual event and in so many ways, gathering at the river is a spiritual time.
 
I wonder if the 150 year old hymn ever comes to mind as people take their place at the river’s edge. At a time in his ministry when an epidemic killed many of his congregation, Robert Lowrey wrote “Shall We Gather at the River”.  Rather than focussing on a river of death, which seemed oppressive, he took an image from the book of Revelation about the river of life, flowing from God.  While a non-literal approach to scripture might find these images unhelpful, one cannot help but be moved by Lowrey’s optimism and focus on the future. Since that writing, many have sung “Shall We Gather” as they gather for baptism literally on a river or figuratively as they remember the waters that connect us. Whatever the case, this hymn and the image it presents are about new life.
 
No matter what we believe, I think we come to life as we gather at the river. The first settlers built the town around a river on purpose.  We are connected by a river that flows from a place of service and belonging.  Obviously, our connection to each other as we live and die and consume and conserve brings us together when it matters most.  
 
In those conversations last winter, that was obvious.  Perhaps nobody names it, but as they gather this weekend some will quietly reflect on the sacred presence at this activity and know they are not alone. They will remember, and give, and work hard and do better and hope for their efforts to matter.  If that is not sacred, I don’t know what is.  A faith for today knows that.  
 
Rev. Donna Tourneur ministers among the people of Trinity United Church in New Glasgow.