“When the day of Pentecost arrived, they were all together in one place.”
Acts 2:1

I don’t know about you, but when I read these words in Acts 2:1, they almost sound quaint. I want to say, “Wait! They were all together in one place? What about social distancing?” I find myself doing the same thing watching “old” TV shows (you know, like from six months ago)! I see people bunched up in groups and think, “They shouldn’t do that!” But of course, they did do that. We all did that just a little while ago. And hopefully we will do so again soon, but not just yet. And that’s what makes this so hard.

Whether you’re a fan of social distancing or not (and most aren’t), it’s one of those things we’ve learned to put up with for now – one more choice we make “out of an abundance of caution” for the sake of others around us. And that’s part of what makes coming back to church so tricky. For some the answer was easy. “If the doors are open, I’ll be there!” That’s great! But for others, it’s more complicated – especially if you have health issues that make you more vulnerable! That’s why we’re taking our time through this month of May as we seek to restore our regular gatherings step by step!

So for example, we don’t actually believe it is best for our church to meet in two separate services. When there are two services you basically become two churches. Normally we try to avoid that! But these aren’t normal times. So for now we will continue to put up with it, looking forward to the day we can all meet together as one! And trust me, I am watching the numbers and reading the recommended guidelines daily for any sign that it is safe to do so!

But for now, we continue to urge those who think they may be sick to remain at home. If you are someone who is vulnerable, please use your best judgement. We’d love to see you, but understand if you can’t come just yet. And we’ll keep trying “out of an abundance of caution” to keep everyone safe

“Longing for the fuller gathering of God’s People!”

Pastor Scott