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Soon . . . But Not Too Soon
On Friday, May 1, Indiana Governor Holcomb announced the multi-phase approach easing our Hoosier state back to more familiar patterns of economic and social life. Naming churches specifically, he gave us the green light to begin expanding our gatherings to 25 by May 8 as long as we abide by CDC safe-distancing guidelines.
I appreciated the vote of confidence and freedom as a church leader. But even at it was spoken, my thoughts were “too soon,” at least for St. Andrew UMC in West Lafayette, for a couple of reasons.
First, according to daily local reports, the numbers of positive tests for Covid-19 in Tippecanoe County are rising by double digits every day. This is after a span of many days when numbers were increasing by small single digits, often by ones and twos. Increased testing accounts for some of this; however, the trend is troubling.
And second, predictive analysis regarding social media postings, which has allowed data experts to accurately predict hotspots throughout the nation in the recent past, came out last week with 22 counties in the US that could become hotspots in the weeks ahead. Three counties in Indiana were noted, among them Tippecanoe County.
Further counsel posted Sunday by our Indiana Bishop, the Rev. Julius Trimble, declared the date he believed Indiana UMC churches should consider resuming worship services in person as no earlier than June 14.
With this information in mind, plus the input of staff, parents, and multiple church leaders, we believe it is best for us to abide by June 14 as the earliest possible date for modifying existing restrictions in the direction of normal at St. Andrew. This would include in-person worship gatherings of some kind, limited Sunday school gatherings, ministry team meetings, and fuller office staff coverage during the week.
We truly miss you. But we love you enough to want this transition to be done as safely as possible.
In Christ’s love,
Pastor Chris
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St. Andrew Tithing Garden - Garden Plots Still Available
If you are looking for a way to help others and yourself while practicing safe social distancing, why not get your hands dirty and join us in the garden? With so much need around us, a garden can be a great way for you to share with neighbors, friends, church ministries like Wood’s Edge, and organizations in our community like Lafayette Transitional Housing and Food Finders. We have 14 x 14 garden plots and 5 x 10 garden boxes available. Additionally, if you are looking to garden at home and need help getting started, please reach out as well! We would be happy to help you safely work up, plant, and even maintain a garden at your home if you would like the help. If interested in gardening at the church or getting started at home, please email Jim Stephens for more information.
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Worshipful Wednesday
Please join us for some 80's contemporary Christian music as Greg Deason and friends share their musical gifts. Worshipful Wednesdays take place at 6:30 p.m. and you can view it either by:
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Thoughtful Thursday
Join Pastor Chris and Pastor Annettra on Facebook Live Thursdays at 3:30 p.m.for some inspirational words and prayers to help you get through the week.
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St. Andrew: an open community growing in the ways of Jesus, sent out daily to share the healing love of God.
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