AT THE CHURCH O’ THE PINES, Simon the cat surveys his domain. The ferns rise into the light and the tree buds open. The hepatica and spring beauties bloom on the forest floor. Soon the trillium will open in their brilliant blossoms and grace the trail sides. Simon appreciates all of it. We think.

Meanwhile, Sparky the Cardinal sings his Sunday morning solos. Which are occasionally hard to hear over the shouting of the bluejays. And this past week, our wood thrushes, gone these many cold months, have returned, and sing their otherworldly songs at dusk. It is good to have all our wandering congregation members back in the fold, from herons to catbirds to wrens to orioles. All here wish you Good Sabbath.