"New Ventures in Being the Church"
After careful evaluation and prayer, the Public Health Response Team decided this week to delay the restart of in-person worship until July 26^th.  The continued rise in the number of COVID-19 cases in Morgan County was one of the factors in our decision.  We believe we have strong protocols for a safe return to in-person worship, but they were designed for an improvement in the community transmission rate.  I believe this is a wise and faithful decision that places a priority on the health of our members and guests.  I know this is disappointing for those who are ready to return to worship.  We ask for your patience and continued prayers as we take cautious steps toward a safe return.  And until that time is right for you to return, continue to join us for the Facebook Live service.

Plans are in the works for an outside Vespers Service at Founders Park next to the church on Wednesday, July 15^th at 6:00 p.m.  We will send out a separate email giving you details about this event.  Plan to bring lawn chairs and blankets for the service.  This will be a great time of connecting at a distance while we are still unable to gather in the church.

Toby and I are glad to announce the start of a new ministry initiative to strengthen our connections as a church beginning the first week in July. It will take a while to make the rounds, but we will start knocking on the doors at the homes of members.  If someone comes to the door, we will move to a safe social distance outside your home, and if you have time to talk, check-in with you and pray with you if you would like.  If no one answers the door, we will leave a door hanger that contains our contact information so you can call us to arrange a visit when you are available.  I ride my bicycle over half of Decatur, so do not be surprised if you see me ride up on a red bike.

A second phase of strengthening our connections will involve virtual hug yard signs from the church.  We will share more details about this initiative in July.  To pique your curiosity, I will tell you that whoever receives a yard sign will be asked to choose the next person to receive it.  Look for more on this in the upcoming editions of the church e-newsletter.

Finally, after our return to in-person worship when we celebrate Holy Communion for the first time, those who worship with us through Livestream are urged to invite Toby and me to bring Holy Communion to you during the next week. We will bring the sealed cups and wafers in a zip lock bag to your door, stay outside at a safe social distance, and celebrate the Sacrament with you.  We have missed this celebration as much as you have and look forward to sharing it with you again.

Your faithful support of your church through your prayers, gifts, service, and witness continue to amaze and inspire me.  I am confident that when the time comes, you will support your church with your presence as well.  Whether we are apart or together, we are the Body of Christ.  I thank God for you every day in my prayers.