Grace and peace to you in the name of Jesus Christ!

At the July Council meeting, the decision was made to adopt a hybrid approach when it comes to our ministry this August. Guided by recommendations of the Minnesota Department of Health, the bulk of our ministry will remain online. Although we desperately miss being together in person, we understand that large gatherings of people can spread the virus in ways that can be deadly. St. James leaders, myself included, have discerned a cautious route.

Throughout August, our primary way of worship will be live-streamed online. We will gather online on Sundays at 9:30 a.m. and on Wednesdays, at 7:30 p.m. There will be a phone-in worship option at noon on August 2, 9, and 16.

Starting Sunday, August 23, in addition to the online option, we will offer a Parking Lot worship at 8:00 a.m. Come to worship in the safety of your vehicle for a spoken Service of the Word. You will be able to tune in the sound on your car radio (87.9 FM - in the parking lot only).

Flexibility is key in these times of rapidly changing information about and approaches to the virus. At the August Council, we will reevaluate our ministry and decide upon a direction for September based on the following:

Spiritual needs of the congregation, as determined through the Council’s contact initiative.
Recommendations of science/health community.
Seek a balance between the top priority of safety (especially for those most at risk) and the spiritual needs for gathering – whether that is virtual or in-person.

Awareness of our capacity of resources, including staffing. Comfort levels vary among our staff and must be honored as we navigate these uncharted waters. Depending on the direction we take, we might need to shift financial resources for staffing.

I invite your prayers and patience as we navigate these uncharted waters. In all that we do, we seek the Spirit’s guidance and remain grateful for God’s presence.

In Christ’s Light,

Pastor Walt