The gentle art of letter writing

Photo by Diane Helentjaris on Unsplash

In the early years of the twenty-first century letter writing seemed to be a dying art. The immediacy and convenience of email or text led to changes in communication between family and friends. Mailshots by businesses were replaced by email subscription lists and online advertising. Hand delivered letters, either handwritten or typed, became a rarity rather then the norm.

When COVID-19 took hold across the world the shift towards connecting and communicating online was both inevitable and essential. Home working, home schooling and online GP consultations became a necessity rather than an option. Video conferencing allowed business, community organisations and social groups to stay in touch. Life in 2020, for those with access to the technology, moved online.

The apostle Paul found himself restricted while living under house arrest in Rome. A few close friends were allowed to visit but contact with others was limited. Preaching and public debate were longer possible. Paul adapted using the means at his disposal. Letters were dictated and sent to the churches Paul had earlier helped to establish. Letters that would shape the development of the Christian Church came about when others forms of communication became impossible. 

With restrictions on contact with others likely to continue in the coming months we could do worse than follow Paul's example. Perhaps now is the time to revive the gentle art of letter writing.