As we transition into a new phase this week, with in-person worship gatherings for the first time since early March, I want to first of all express thankfulness for your faithfulness as a church family during this time.  Despite the fact that we could not meet physically, you have continued to stay connected to one another through your calls, you have faithfully ministered to people inside and outside of our church family, you have faithfully tuned into the preaching of the Word on Facebook, our church website, or DVD, and you have been exemplary in your faithful, consistent giving.  This is evidence of the Spirit of God at work among us!  Be encouraged! 

This Sunday we move into a new Phase, with the resumption of in-person worship in our sanctuary.  Remember, this is only the first phase.  We are monitoring week-by-week, and will change accordingly.  But this is where we will begin: 

• This Sunday we will offer three worship services, at 8:15, 9:30, and 10:45am. Each will last about 45 minutes, which will allow time for cleaning in-between.
• Everyone will enter through the front doors, on Main Street, and those doors will be opened for you. In fact, you should not have to touch much of anything throughout the whole worship service.  (We will not pass the offering plate or do any hand-outs.)
• Seating will be marked and spaced according to state guidelines. In fact, we will go beyond state guidelines.  Couples and families may sit together.  When you enter, ushers will help you find appropriate seating. 
• We encourage you to visit with and talk with one another! Just communicate your love through your face.  Let’s hold back on the handshakes, hugs, and fist-bumps for now.  We can show love at 6-10 feet through warm smiles and warm words! Even if you have a mask on, people can tell when you are smiling, and they will feel your warmth. 
• Some of you will feel better if you wear a mask. That’s great!  You can wear your own, or, if you forget yours, we will have some available when you enter.  We will also have hand sanitizing stations set up.
• Some of you will feel better about remaining at home for the time being, and that is fine! We don’t want anyone to feel pressured to come in-person, especially if you are in a vulnerable category.  You can simply keep watching the service, as you have been doing.  Beginning this Sunday, we will livestream our 9:30 service, so you will be able to watch it live on the church website or Facebook, or you can watch it later in the day.  

Our message this week will be from Acts 1:1-11.  This Thursday, May 21^st, is Ascension Day, a day when Christians around the world celebrate the 40^th day after Easter, when Christ ascended into heaven. 

Our risen Lord Jesus reigns.  It is so important to remember that during these times.  And that’s what we are going to talk about on Sunday, that “He’s On The Throne.”  Read over Acts 1:1-11,  and join us in-person or online!  

Love you all, 

Pastor Thurman

Yours in Christ,

Pastor Thurman