Though we New Englanders love to complain about weather our seasons on average are rather mild. Muggy summer days, though admittedly unpleasant, are few in number and sustained zero-degree winter patterns are actually rare. All in all, it’s a great place to be for those who like the experience of four distinct seasons.

Well, until this year. Our average winter snowfall of 43” was exceeded in a matter of a few days - its still coming down as I type - and there have been no thaws to relieve the unrelenting below freezing cold. On top of that it’s been windy (Boston, not Chicago, is the real “windy city” champ). We’ve run out of places to put snow, municipal budgets are exhausted, and arts organizations have cancelled events with unprecedented frequency. (An example: The Seraphim Singers cancelled two concerts, scheduled a week apart, that were to include premiere performances of Richard Clark’s setting of a text by Adam Wood.) While not making headlines, churches are suffering in that many no longer have the resources to clear parking lots and heat sanctuaries. Yet, more heavy snow is predicted for Thursday and above freezing temperature is not to be found on any extended forecast.

Of course other areas besides New England have suffered this winter. Got any stories to tell? How has the weather effected your church? Have you had major rehearsal and performance disruptions?

Let’s complain together.