"Some old men came to see Abbba Poemen, and said to him, "Tell us, when we see brothers dozing during the sacred office, should we pinch them so they will stay awake?" The old man said to them, "Actually, if I saw a brother sleeping, I would put his head on my knees and let him rest."
In God's Holy Light Sister Joan Chittister, OSB
It is not uncommon to see this in memory care homes. People sit together and nap; yes, even in the midst of a worship service. While the dozing ones may not put their heads in their neighbors' knees, shoulders seem to work quite well as a resting place.
I am part of a couple of online women clergy groups. While I seldom take part in the conversations, one recent question caught my attention. The minister was inquiring how to become a better preacher without taking a class. There were many suggestions for books to read, podcasts, etc. However, my encouragement was to regularly lead worship in a few skilled nursing and/or memory care communities. You will strengthen your voice. You will learn to try to mold your homily to those present in the room. You will learn to keep things short, succinct, and lively. And, in the case when your brothers and sisters are napping on one another's shoulders, you will learn that Jesus is there, quite awake, and listening to every word you say.
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