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

Last week, I spoke about our metric-focused approach to regathering as a church. The Return to In-Person Ministry Team carefully monitors the COVID-related numbers on a weekly basis. I remain grateful for this team’s faithful service to our congregation. Their commitment and diligence is allowing us to navigate these challenging times safely, reducing the risk of exposure and spread of the virus.

When this ministry team met last Tuesday, it noted the positive trending of numbers in Dakota and Scott counties. We are able to move into the next phase of our regathering. Phase 3a allows us to return inside for worship on a weekly basis. We begin with a hybrid worship in the Fellowship Hall STARTING JANUARY 31. Here is what that worship will look like:

You will need to register ahead of time - either online (click here) or by phone. We have space for twenty-five worshippers.
You need to enter the building through DOOR B and will have access to ONLY the Fellowship Hall.
Bathrooms are for emergency use only. Please use your bathroom at home before coming to worship.
Our new air-cleaning ionization filter will be running in the Fellowship Hall.
Masks must be worn at all times.
A trained Guide will show you to your seat. Seats will be spaced six-feet apart. You will stay seated throughout the worship time.
There will be no singing or group speaking during the worship.
There is no sharing of the peace or any physical contact with other worshipers.
This is a Hybrid worship. The first portion will involve a projection of the Livestream worship on a large screen. Following the prayers of the people, a pastor will enter the Fellowship Hall to celebrate communion.
Communion will be served in sealed containers to you in your seat. Upon direction of the Presiding Pastor, we will remove masks and eat the bread, drink the wine.
After worship, all participants remain in their seats until the Guides dismiss them. There will be no handshaking at the door. Folks are asked to not linger or socialize in the building or parking lot.

Hybrid Worship will be different from what we are accustomed. Each aspect of this worship seeks to provide the safest conditions that we can and still come together in person. We designed the worship based on guidelines provided by medical professionals. Of course, we maintain our liturgical and sacramental integrity.

In addition to this in-person, inside, Hybrid Worship at 9:30 a.m., we will also offer a in-person, Drive-In worship at 8:00 a.m., Livestream Online worship at 9:30 a.m., and Online/Phone Zoom Communion at noon. Offering different opportunities allows folks to decide what type of worship they prefer. We recognize that everyone is in a slightly different place. In all, we are being responsive to sharing the love of Jesus in the safest way possible.

As always, I look forward to worshiping with you - whether in-person or online/on phone.

In Christ’s Light,

Pastor Walt