As I said in church last Sunday, we are inviting members to join us in the sanctuary on Sunday May 24th which is two Sundays from now. Of course everyone wants to be back together for worship, to recover what we’ve gone without. We want to be careful; therefore each household has to contemplate God’s will for them in this decision. Pray and seek an answer. Your decision is not a reflection of your faith or courage. For those who are most vulnerable, it is wise to wait until conditions are better. For those who have very little risk then it is time to rejoin. For everyone in between, feel free to take as many weeks as you need.
This is a soft opening of worship to the congregation. I don’t expect everyone back. It will probably be gradual. This will actually be helpful because our limit will be 75 in the sanctuary. Our usual Sunday worship before all this was 100. This first Sunday I’d assume will be around half of that. As more people feel safe to return, we can adjust, week by week.
For those who do come, I know you will put others above yourself. That’s what the early church in Acts did and that’s what Glendale Lutheran does. We have to set aside handshakes and hugs for a time. You may not feel like you want to wear a mask but first consider those in the next pew. The safer people feel the greater the likelihood they will come to church. Here are the steps we will take to be safe and make people feel secure.
- Make sure you are healthy Sunday morning.
- The front doors will remain open before, during and after service to minimize contact.
- We will have a maximum of 75 people in the sanctuary. (Based off County Guidelines)
- Congregants are welcome to use a mask.
- Every other pew will be roped off to create a buffer.
- Households will sit at least 6 feet away from other households.
- Bulletins will be used instead of hymnals.
- The Family Life Center will be for those who need to be extra careful and distant. Refrain from singing in the FLC.
- Offering will be on the back table.
- During communion, Pastor and an elder will come to each household’s pew. If you aren’t ready to take communion, just cross your arms when approached.
- Bible class will be telecast rather than in person.
I’d love to get a gauge on who wants to attend services on the 24th. Please either email me at scottjonas314@gmail.com or text me at 805-345-6658 and let me know. Your suggestions are welcome as well. Christ is for us and nothing can separate us from the love of God.
