Page 3 - My Story. Our Story. God's Story.

Despite staff changes, the leadership of First Lutheran demonstrated resilience,
adaptability and ingenuity in addressing the challenges posed by the Covid-19

pandemic. Prioritizing the well-being of members was a paramount focus. Early
arrangements were made to ensure that every household within the congregation

would be reached via telephone. The dedicated efforts of many volunteers
facilitated this initiative. In a gesture of care, 'porch drops' of packages were

delivered to solitary members. At-home educational materials were sent to families
with kids and virtual Zoom sessions were organized for adults to engage in Bible
study, Adult Forum discussions and other learning opportunities. Realizing that

many members had never used Zoom, a tutorial was shared so that even more
could participate in our growing online ministry. This transition from gathering in-

person in the church building to connecting with members virtually in their homes
marked a significant shift!

Navigating the challenges of collective worship was also a significant endeavor.

Following the closure of the church for in-person gatherings on Friday, March 13,
2020, adjustments were swiftly made for the weekend worship services. Pastor
Justin Eller adapted by recording his sermon in audio format and distributing it to

the congregation through social media and our electronic newsletter. This marked
the beginning of a continuous effort every week to create a worship experience for

members. Worship videos were diligently created each week, complete with the
liturgy led by pastors and members recording from their homes. A milestone event
occurred on Sunday, September 13, 2020, when First Lutheran initiated its first

livestream worship service from the new (but empty) Sanctuary. The service was
streamed on Facebook and our website, enabling members to virtually worship

together in real-time. This new way of worshiping fostered a sense of unity and
solace among members, while also extending an invitation to individuals beyond

our community, across different regions and even worldwide, to participate in our
worship services.

The Rite for Celebrating Holy Communion at Home in Exceptional Circumstances
was created to affirm members that home communion was valid. Through virtual

worship, members partook in Holy Communion using various elements in their