It is time we take another step in our progression through COVD and how we gather together for worship. But before I get to that, I would like to say how well I feel the summer has gone. We have had two outdoor worships and two indoor worships since deciding to resume worshipping in-person. Attendance and energy have been great. Singing together and hearing each other’s voices has been tremendous. When we sang the refrain of one of our hymns and then “Jesus Loves Me” a cappella, many mentioned how they were moved to tears. It has been good to have coffee and a treat and the ability to linger around afterwards to see people that we haven’t seen in over a year. Thank you to everyone who has worked hard to make all this happen.

This Sunday, we will move worship indoors on a regular basis and masks will be optional for those who are vaccinated. Please note, this does not mean we are a “mask-free” facility, and keep in mind, if someone is wearing a mask, it does not mean they are not vaccinated. There are many reasons why someone might choose to continue masking when indoors even though they are vaccinated. Below are just a sample of the following reasons why…

Lives with someone with a weakened immune system
Not old enough to get a vaccine
Has a chronic illness
Works with a vulnerable population, such as a hospital, nursing home, etc…
Doesn’t want to get a cold
Cares for a sick parent
Doesn’t want to get the flu
Feels more comfortable wearing a mask
Will be vacationing or visiting others soon and taking precautions
Returning from an area that is at greater risk

Additionally, children under 12 are not yet eligible for the vaccine and it is still recommended for them to wear masks. I know many schools will be requiring elementary aged kids to wear masks in the fall.

In fact, you might consider wearing a mask even if you are vaccinated simply to show support for those whom it is still required. Not only for people in our own community, but for those around the world who still do not have vaccines.

Also, remember we are not through the pandemic. Things are still subject to change and we might need to mandate mask wearing or return worship outdoors.

Lastly, if you want to worship in-person but are not comfortable with these new guidelines, remember, you can join us on Wednesday evenings. For the next 4 weeks, we are worshipping outdoors for our “Backyard VBS.” Dinner is served at 5:30pm, a hybrid style worship (camp/traditional) is at 6pm, and games, crafts and general tom foolery ensue from 6:30-7:30pm. We got off to a great start last night with close to 50 people participating throughout the evening. Thank you to our Indonesian sisters and brothers for providing dinner. Next week we will be grilling burgers and hotdogs and stuffing our faces with chips. We would love for you to join us.

As always, thank you. Thank you for your love and commitment to our shared faith and how we live it out in our lives. It is our faith that ultimately guides us and helps to determine our actions. Remember, God saves. We serve.

Grace and Peace,

Pastor Tim