RELAUNCHING: THOUGHTS ON THE CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITITES OF 2021
‘Church attendance is the first thing that goes, then belonging, and finally belief—in that order,’ says EIU researcher and mainline pastor Ryan Burge in a
fascinating interview that corrects common assumptions about both less active church members, and those who are "Nones." If you enjoyed
Marisa's article, make sure and take a look at this additional resource that our summer relaunching groups have been using as a tool to think about making Emmanuel's mission and ministry more effective as we rebuild. And then talk about it with another Emmanuelite!
BISHOP SEARCH PROCESS UPDATE
The Election Committee has written the diocese with an update on the next phase of our search for the 12th Bishop of Springfield. Nominations closed June 30, the process worked as planned, nominees submitted completed packets, and background and reference checks have begun. Neither the number of nominees nor their names will be released until after the background check phase has been completed, both to protect their identities as they continue in discernment and to protect the integrity of the Election Process.
Read the whole letter!
LOWER THE EXAM STRESS!
Our curate, Marisa, will take her ordination examinations the end of this month over three entire days, July 29, 30, and 31. It would be very helpful to Marisa and Trent to have a meal provided for those three evenings. Sign up to provide a home cooked or restaurant meal:
www.TakeThemAMeal.com/LHFH5910. Please keep Marisa in your prayers during this intense time of writing (and thinking!) as she is examined for proficiency in the "six canonical areas": The Holy Scriptures, History of the Christian Church, Christian Theology, The Practice of Ministry, Christian Worship, and Christian Ethics and Moral Theology.
SUNDAY MASK POLICY
Emmanuel no longer requires all persons to wear masks at indoor events (with the exception of one event: our "safer" RSVP-only Mass on Wednesday at 12:15 for those who are not vaccinated or wish to be cautious.) By not wearing a mask, you are affirming that you are fully vaccinated and that your fellow parishioners can rely on that as a truthful statement. We also encourage anyone who prefers wearing a mask to continue doing so.
CHOIRMASTER AUDITIONS
We are now in the process of interviewing and auditioning for a new choirmaster at Emmanuel. Please offer up the search to God when you come to Mass, as well as praying at home that God will send us the right person in this unusual re-launching season.
This past week and next representatives of Emmanuel are making deliveries for the local Meals on Wheels program. While MOW is year-round, during the summer many of the regular volunteers are away. Emmanuel has helped fill this need for about thirty years! In addition to bringing a hot meal to the homes of those needing the service, the volunteer provides a brief interaction with the recipient. A cheerful greeting is as much a benefit as is the food. And as is often true those who have given of themselves find they are blessed by the experience. Thank you to all the volunteers who have participated in this valuable ministry over the years and especially to those helping this year.
