Churchgoers who try to follow Christian teachings to love their neighbors sometimes find out in real time how complicated that command can be.

Being confronted with situations in the contemporary world in which such love is tested, as one Charlottesville congregation experienced before its early worship service this past Sunday, can lead to seasons of spiritual growth and enhanced clarity of mission. But before that kind of healing and growth can begin, there is a need for comfort, reassurance, reflection and a reassessment of realistic expectations.

Shortly before the 10 a.m. service at St. Paul’s Memorial Church, on the University of Virginia-adjacent Corner, an agitated stranger entered the parish hall for a cup of coffee and ended up punching and physically attacking six of the Episc

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