. . . Holy Communion & Reopening our Church . . .

One of the least exciting things for me is to write an informative e-mail. I prefer writing about where I've been experiencing the movement of God in the world. This Sunday Jackson County Executive Frank White, is supposed to unveil Phase Two for opening our county. If you're like me, you might be waiting with nervous anticipation. Per our Bishop's suggestions, we will likely not open until mid-June. There are many logistics to be worked out, and we are working on them before we can guarantee any measure of safety for you all to gather together. I care about your spiritual, emotional, and physical health, so I plan to do all in my power to make sure you are safe in our place of worship. 

It is well known that as followers of Jesus Christ, we are a people of advent, of anticipation. We know that Christ has initiated the trajectory toward the redemption of the world and we are partnering with him as we await his return.

“But about that day or hour no one knows,

neither the angels in heaven, nor the Son,

but only the Father.  

Beware, keep alert;

for you do not know when the time will come." 

Mark 13:32-33

Throughout the millennia we have been waiting, and some have tried to predict his return.
We are a people living in the "in-between" times. We are used to living in the already and not yet. When we gather for Holy Communion each month, it serves as that reminder as we gather together as people of God. 

For that reason, I want to invite you to gather with me on June 7 at 6 pm or 6:45 pm for Drive-in Communion. As people, created in the image of God, we know we are created for connection and relationship, and we need to be together and remind ourselves that even in times of uncertainty God promises to be with us. Because of the current restrictions on gathering, we need each person to sign up HERE. 

If you know someone who does not use the internet or e-mail, please call that person and ask them when they would like to gather and sign them up with your name. We will be sending out information daily and I need your help sharing the message. And yes, we will be doing the full communion liturgy, watch your inbox for that! Bring a lawn chair too!

RE-OPENING 
Rest assured, we are taking steps to reopen in the safest way possible. But I want you to be a part of that process and I want to understand where your heart and hesitations are during this time.
Please fill out this survey by Sunday, May 31. It will close at midnight.

In the midst of all of this, we are still Christ's Holy Church. We are still reaching new people each week through our online worship. Attendance is up, new people are joining us, generosity is increasing, small groups are still meeting, care for one another remains, our children are engaging, and we are still serving our community. I am beyond grateful for all that you do!