Keeping connected over Easter

Trending on social media, #AloneTogether is the perfect oxymoron to sum up life right now.

Trying to stay physically isolated but socially connected has presented a challenge for some. With Easter only two weeks away, people may start to feel that distancing a little more keenly as in-person church services have been suspended and gatherings of more than 10 people have been banned. But there are still ways to stay connected — especially with several holidays on the horizon that would normally bring people together.

President Trump has said he’ll roll back social distancing requirements by Easter, but health officials say, if anything, we need to double down on it as the spread of coronavirus hasn’t yet reached its peak. We know it will be hard to stay separated from friends and family (blood and chosen) during special occasions, so we have some suggestions for making it work.

Any kind of videoconferencing program will be the closest you can get to in-person interaction. You won’t be able to touch, but at least you’ll be able to see each other’s smiling faces. Most smartphones have FaceTime or something similar to allow for video calls. Many laptops come equipped with cameras, so families can use Skype, Zoom or other programs to video chat. Facebook Messenger also has a video-call function that can be used on a smartphone or camera-equipped laptop.

Since not everyone has videoing capabilities, typical phone calls are always an option, but so are multi-way calls. The easiest way to do a multi-way call is to have someone with a smartphone start it. Smartphone user: Call the first person. Once they pick up, press “Add Call” on your phone screen. Call the next person. Once the second person picks up, press “Merge Call” on your phone screen. iPhone users and users of newer Androids can add up to five people on one call. It’s not as good as getting to see each other, but it is a great way to include loved ones who may not have access to smart devices.

Many people have expressed concern over not being able to attend church as we near the trifecta of spring Christian holidays: Palm Sunday, Good Friday and Easter Sunday. Fear not: Many churches have begun livestreaming their services. Some may do this through a dedicated website; others have used Facebook Live, YouTube or other streaming services. Some small churches may just have their pastor or priest broadcasting a service from his/her home. If you aren’t sure if your church will be doing a virtual service, reach out to your church leader(s) or fellow congregants.

Technology will never replicate nor replace the warmth and communion of being with loved ones — particularly on special occasions. However, social distancing helps to keep us safe and to flatten the curve of coronavirus spread. So though we may technically be alone, even on Easter, technology will allow us to stay connected. Then we can be #AloneTogether.