July 2, 2021
Moving Forward
Here at Hope, we have come a long way over the past months, as the impacts of the pandemic continue to lessen. Social distancing and mask requirements are no longer in effect. We’ve returned to our former Sunday morning worship service schedule. Nursery care is now available during all worship services, and Sunday morning coffee hour resumes this weekend.

While we continue to pray and care for those whose lives have been affected by the pandemic, and while we continue to carefully monitor pandemic developments in our community, state, and nation, we are still able to keep moving forward in our ministry. After deliberation with the pastors and Ministry Leadership Team of the congregation, we are happy to share the following news. Beginning the weekend of July 17-18 …

  • Sunday communion will be served from the altar rail, as in years past, instead of in continuous line fashion;
  • Communicants at all worship services may receive the wine from either the individual cups (distributed by the communion server) or from the chalice (common cup);
  • Those preparing and serving Communion will not be required to wear masks and gloves; and
  • Handshakes will be optional during the greeting time, the sharing of peace, and at the exit doors (a simple wave for those who prefer not to shake hands).

Also, we are planning for a great many of Hope’s “normal” ministry activities and mission events to resume in the weeks and months ahead, including choir rehearsals, Wednesday Night Alive programming, and Confirmation classes all starting in September. Watch for further information and details about these and many more activities, and pray about how you can get involved in the Lord’s work at Hope. Our common mission remains critically important: to proclaim and live the Word and love of Christ in our community. May God bless our church as we keep moving forward! 
Hammer of Hope Award Presentation
God has blessed our congregation with hundreds of talented, dedicated volunteers who carry out the Lord’s work in this place. We are truly thankful for every person who helps our congregation carry out its mission in the community. In June, Hope presented the Hammer of Hope Award for 2021 to Trudy Rogers.

Trudy and her husband, Dick, joined the congregation fifteen years ago. She has been extremely active as a volunteer ever since, particularly in the community service arena. Trudy has participated in Habitat for Humanity projects, disaster response efforts, Night to Shine, Hope Chest, and Hope Fest. She sings in the Hope Senior Choir, and is eager to get back to choir rehearsals after a pandemic break. Trudy helps out, along with Dick, in our Bulletin Folder group, and as a facilities grounds crew volunteer. In past years, she has served as a Facilities Team member, Fellowship Team leader, and with the Puerto Rico Mission Trip, among other important roles.
 
We want to be sure to recognize and thank Trudy’s co-servant and fellow dedicated volunteer, Dick Rogers. Together they are an inspiring couple, and a blessing to so many of us here at Hope. Trudy loves her church, she has a true servant heart, and she is one of many, many volunteers who actively help Hope Lutheran Church carry out its mission.
Ways To Worship
All are welcome to join us for worship this weekend at Hope Lutheran Church! Services are on Saturday at 5:30 PM; and Sunday at 8:30 and 11:00 AM.
 
Social distancing and masks are not required, but masks are still strongly recommended for those who are not fully vaccinated. For those who wish to maintain social distancing, seating will be available this weekend in the back of the church, the front wings, and the balcony. Advance registration for worship services is no longer necessary.

The 8:30 & 11:00 AM services will be live streamed, with a recorded version available after 10:00 AM.
 
For more details, check out What to Expect at Hope’s Worship Services