Page 5 - July 2020 Traveler

I want to give you a brief glimpse of what our in person worship services will look like.
Masks will be worn at all time. Physical distancing of 6 feet will be maintained from the

time you step out of your vehicle until your departure except for a short period for com-
munion distribution. No air conditioning can be turned on and the bathrooms may be
closed due to strict sanitation guidelines. Our worship services will be shortened with
no singing, no unison prayers, no passing of the peace and there will be no fellowship

time.

We must and will encourage everyone 65 and older and those who are immune com-
promised to not attend in person gatherings. I myself am at risk and will do all I can to

minimize my risk. There are many details to attend to; therefore, we cannot be in a
hurry to return, even though the state now allows gatherings of 50. We will wait to see
if the number of cases and hospitalizations rise after the phase four opening of the
state. We have a moral and ethical obligation to keep each member safe.

Per our insurance company, we are following state and local health guidelines as well
as our NI Synod bishop’s suggestions and the “Resuming Care-Filled Worship and
Sacramental Life During a Pandemic,” a 36 page document drawn up by an ecumeni-

cal group of theologians, scientists, physicians, pastors, bishops, and practitioners
from United Methodist, Evangelical Lutheran, Episcopal, Pan-Methodist and Roman
Catholic traditions.

In the meanwhile, please join us for our worship services on-line via zoom and/or

Facebook and join us for our fellowship times after worship via zoom. We continue to
find ways to enhance our worship together from our homes knowing God is present. I
encourage family members to please assist your loved ones in joining our services

through zoom via their telephone if they have no computer or smart phone. Nothing
can be “messed up” if a wrong number is punched in; just try again.

I am always available for assistance, practice in joining zoom or just to chat. I really

miss each of you and love seeing your faces and hearing your voices via zoom.

These are challenging times and we ask for your patience and prayers as we move
forward in planning our in-person worship services. We will keep you informed and as

always, welcome your input. HOPE IS ON THE HORIZON! THANKS BE TO GOD!

God’s peace,

Sharon

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