Greetings to you in the name of the Lord Jesus.
I am writing to address issues confronting our congregation due to the public
health issues related to the coronavirus. Please know that the Congregation
Council and I are striving to keep current with events which are evolving
rapidly, so that we might respond and plan appropriately, with your best
interests in mind.
OF FIRST IMPORTANCE, please make decisions regarding your participation
in church events with YOURSELF and OTHERS in mind. If you are
uncomfortable being present for activities including worship, do not attend.
There is no condemnation for those who are not present. If you are not
feeling well, do not attend. If you are especially vulnerable due to age or
underlying health conditions, do not attend. If you would like to be added to
our list of Home Communion members please let me know. If you would like
to watch a recording of our Sunday worship please contact the church office.
IN THE EVENT OF A CANCELLATION, we will do our best to contact you
through email and/or a phone call. Also, we will put a message on the church
phone recorder. You can call and listen to the message for the latest updates.
Decisions regarding cancellation of church events will be made by the
Congregation Council. We will take into consideration the advice of public
health officials, local and federal governments, and our Bishops.
ACTIONS CURRENTLY TAKEN IN WORSHIP As of last Sunday, certain
precautionary measures were implemented and will continue until we get the
“all clear.” We are not shaking hands at any time including in the Sharing of
the Peace. We are not using a common cup at Holy Communion for
intinction. We are not passing the offering plates; they are available at each
sanctuary door. Also, it is a good idea to “spread out” in the sanctuary. This
comes naturally for Lutherans!
Together or apart, we are one in the Lord, and let us be together in prayer for
one another, for our neighbors and for the whole of God’s good creation.
Peace and blessings,
Pastor Bill McKee