Newsletter
May 2020
PASTOR’S THOUGHTS
Dear Friends,
I pray this letter finds you adjusting, finding new ways to be a disciple of Jesus Christ and discovering the joy of God’s creation as we finally enter into Spring.
It seems that worship, as we know it, is under construction. That what we have been in the past, is now in need of new paint, drywall and nails. Our Sanctuaries are in need of a different support system. Or, maybe we are discovering that we need less of all those things! But what we do need is each person’s ability to move into the future in new ways.
We are moving forward. We are beginning to understand that this time of disruption is also a time to discover new ways to worship and to re-center our lives. Throughout the Old Testament, we find the Israelite people living in a cycle. The cycle begins with the people loving and worshipping God with enthusiasm. Resulting in a better life for the community. Then, as life improves, the people become distracted and forget to worship and thank God. Life becomes confused, complicated, and begins to disintegrate, bad things start to happen. Then, the people turn once more to God and the cycle begins again.
Perhaps we are currently in the part of the cycle when humankind will once again turn to God. During this disruption, we have the time to read and pray, to be a good neighbor, to rediscover discipleship. Let’s use this time to re-energize ourselves and those we know and meet. Let’s begin to turn again to God.
So what is happening in our church? Bishop Malone has suggested that we remain closed for two weeks after large groups are permitted to meet. And that when we open, we indicate social distance seating. That we suggest people wear masks. That we do not sing as a group. That our choirs may sing only if they are able to retain social distancing. That small groups may begin if only social distancing mandates are upheld. So we may have a little longer until we meet again in person.
The loving and appropriate decision is that we must be aware of and cautious with those who have underlying medical conditions, which may make some of us more susceptible to Covid-19. We must make allowances for people to meet while allowing space for those who cannot. I will continue to offer worship online through Facebook and the website. We will meet occasionally using the Drive-in method. The next one is scheduled for June 7 at 10:00. Bring your own communion elements!
Friends, this isn’t the first time the world has been hit with something extremely challenging in all ways. Throughout all history these kinds of things have happened. The Black Plague, leprosy, flu, atomic bombs, wars… Paul encouraged the people of Philippi with these words: “Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:6-7
Grace and Peace, Amy