For people that cannot have that spicific foretaste, how are we extending the table to them (in the context of corperate worship)? Ideally, society could shut down so people could do their worship practices. That's not reality. Who are we excluding by focusing on this one expression of Sabbath?

1/ I'm not sure society should/could shut down for sabbath. There are two things I think are required: - employment that is not so exploitative in nature or duration that you cannot get to worship,even at a non-standard time; - and, complementary worship at other times, e.g. afternoon HC/Evensong.

2/ After all, some are obliged to work on Sundays like you. Even if that were lessened, there are employers who must not close on a Sunday (e.g. first responders), those who would make it very inconvenient (e.g. public transport),and those sorely missed (e.g. leisure industry,for we must relax too).

You're absolutely right. Society can't shut down, so we have to get creative with how we respond to the need.

3/ Oh but I see your point about the expression of the sabbath. Whilst church may be ideal, there are plenty reasons why one can't or might not want to go. That's why I like that Anglicans are not so hung up on the 'Sunday Obligation' (like Catholics, no disrespect intended).

Yes. My priest still views me as a member of the church and reaches out to check on me. We have a good relationship, even though I'm hardly (if ever) able to attend Sunday liturgy.

I think it is situational to why a person "cannot" have that foretaste. Is there a particular situation that you have in mind?

I think a lot about my fellow restaurant workers, and other people caught in capitalism trying to survive. Sometimes just holding our loves together (and paying bills) can seperate us from Sunday gatherings. And, at least in my area, there's not really another option that works with my schedule.

This is a reality the church needs to face., especally because persons in this situation are often on the lower end of the class war, and are marginalized. Even church crowds take ffor granted that a resturant will be open after church.

I don' tthink its a situational per person issue. This is the culture and society we live in. People that don't work banker hours or ar retired are often excluded from the activities and life of a church community.

As someone in this situation, what do you think would be the solution? I'm asking out of genuine curiosity and belief that you probably know better than I do!

Honestly? A 24/7 chapel. A place for people to go when they can and connect with the body and blood and blessing. People can go together as able, crossing lines of secular community with church community. A place could connect people more so than a time slot. That's one solution.

Another is a mobile alter. A priest can set up times to hold service in parking lots and parks. Odd times where people can come as able. Not in a set time rhythm (IE always on thursday at 2) but set up times as we are in communication with the people who want to gather.

All in all, it's going to require community work, connecting with various groups of people and translating their need to the church.

Aaron has made clear elsethread that he is obliged to work for pay on Sundays.