When we had to cancel the first church service because of COVID-19 I hardly imagined it that ten weeks later we would still be worshiping virtually and trying to stay connected as a community by email, phone calls and text.
It feels strange, and most of us are eager to be physically present with one another again for worship.
We’ve learned some things through all of this. At the very least, we’ve learned not to take those handshakes and welcoming smiles for granted, but we’ve also learned that we are not “alone” even when we are alone. In the Spirit, we are gathered together wherever we are as a community constituted around Jesus Christ. A community that understands suffering is part of redemption and death is prelude to resurrection.
On Sunday night, May 24, at 5pm we will gather together outside, in the field beside the church to worship and give thanks for the ways God has sustained us in this time. In order to do this in a way that cares for others, we will maintain physical distancing of at least 6 feet between family units. Some people may choose to stay in their cars. In lieu of bulletins an order of service will be posted here on the website and sent through the email list for individuals to print out or view on their mobile devices.
We will gather, we will give thanks, we will go back out into the world to love and serve our neighbors in this strange time that demands so much of us.
An order of service and protocols for gathering will be available Friday afternoon. Check back on the website or sign-up for the email list for full instructions.
As Paul wrote in so many of his letters, I look forward to greeting you in person again.
Grace and peace,
Pastor Jim
