September 5, 2020
Dear Members and Friends,
I know you must be wondering what the status of the Church is with regard to in-person worship and other activities this fall. First, our sincere apologies for the delay in getting this information to you.
The Safety Committee, excellently Chaired by Gordon Kent, has been meeting faithfully every two weeks all summer. At these meetings, we review national, State and Municipal data and guidelines, NH Conference recommendations, the needs and desires of our members, logistical issues, legal issues, and the impact of our decisions on staff, clergy, members, friends, and guests. At a meeting in early August, the Committee developed a comprehensive plan for resuming small group gatherings (<10) for members in mid-September.
Unfortunately, the reopening of schools and colleges, and a stubbornly high national infection rate have called into question where things will stand in the months ahead. In light of this ambiguity, both the Church Council and Safety Committee unanimously voted at a special meeting to postpone any re-opening plans until the full impact of back to school activities can be measured and evaluated. Please know, our overarching concern is the health and safety of our community.
To this end, the Church building and Park will remain closed to both inside and outside groups until at least mid-October. Thank you for your patience and understanding.
We know. Just writing these words is painful. But, this crisis will end. In the meantime, our mission is to focus on the following seven areas:
- Continue to offer top quality worship via radio/internet on Sunday mornings.
- Create remote prayer and spiritual formation opportunities so we can keep learning and growing in faith together.
- Create fun and meaningful opportunities to connect, socialize, share news, and maintain our bonds as a community of faith. (Stay tuned for a revival of the weekly e-news.)
- Respond to the needs of those in our wider community for whom the virus has caused or perpetuated extreme hardship.
- Continue to offer pastoral care and support to individuals in need.
- Connect with our youth and church school children in new and creative ways.
- Continue to oversee and conduct the business and financial work of the Church.
We welcome your ideas and leadership as we pursue this active, though remote agenda, this fall!
May God bless you and keep you as we navigate these challenging times. Remember, in Christ, hope abounds, and all things are possible!
Blessings,
Pastor Cindy, Senior Minister
Gordon Kent, Chair, Safety Committee
Carl Allen, Chair, Church Council
