Another month is behind us and a short time remains ahead of us before we resume in-person worship on a limited basis. By now, you should have received a letter of explanation on that resumption which includes detailed instructions on sending in RSVPs; where, when and how to enter the church; seating in the church; and how wee will exit from the church, among other things. Again, it may seem like a lot of preparation and precaution (and a lot of work went into that process, I might add), but we consulted representatives of the wider church, our local county health officials, and our insurance company before setting these procedures up. What we’ve extablished meets the standard of being as safe as possible and as prudent as possible.
It is one step in a process. In the meantime, I will continue to ask for your understanding, patience, and kindness as we move into this next phase. We know much more about the virus than we did in March, but there is still much that we are learning about how to respond to it. Some people are not ready for in-person worship at this time; others are. Each one must decide for themselves in this matter. One size does not fit all.
We are also pleased that wee are able to schedule a service of Confirmation for Sunday, August 16th, at 2:00 pm. The completion of that step was one large piece of unfinished business from March and it is good to have a plan in place for doing so. Worship will be held outside for that service, which should give us more latitude on how many wee can seat and what wee can do in worship. (This will be a service open to the church community, I might add).
Other matters, such as how church school and Confirmation will be handled this fall are still being worked through.
As for whatever else will happen in the weeks and months ahead, that is in God’s hands. I don’t know what the future may hold, but I trust the One who holds it. That will have to be enough for now.
And again, if you have questions, concerns, or find yourself in a crisis situation, please do not hesitate to contact the church office by phone 920-892-7456 or email (churchoffice@salemuccplywi.org) or phone me directly (920-838-0405).
Shalom aleichem – Peace be with you.
Rev Jim Hoppert
