A Word from Mitch-COVID-19 Update

As we get closer and closer to Easter, as more people are vaccinated, as we begin to open up more and more, I am filled with hope. I long for full church again.

This morning I read over a proposal from Scott Keith, who has been managing our video work. He proposes changing our camera set up so that cameras can be mounted high above the worshiping body, allowing us to worship together and stream at the same time. This proposal will go to the vestry this evening. The proposal is both a sign of things to come and an acknowledgment of how far we have gone from filming services with an ipad and two iPhones. It also acknowledges that some things are here to stay. I believe we will be streaming services for years to come. In this way, St. Martin's has grown. I am thankful for that growth. I am thankful for the flexibility the church has shown, the patience, and the perseverance.

After Easter, we enter our next phase of re-opening, going back to the 8 and 10:30 a.m. format. The 5 p.m. service outside on The Point will continue. There are plans in place for physical distancing and a reservation system should we grow beyond our authorized capacities. We are seeking to navigate a wide gambit of needs, desires, CDC guidelines, and diocesan guidelines, all while striving to love our neighbors as ourselves.

On Sunday night, I had the immense pleasure of working with families and sponsors as our youth move toward confirmation. This year is different because parents are attending confirmation preparation with their children. Seeing families engage scripture and questions of their faith together is special. Seeing families talk about faith, worship, prayer, and their lives is good. It is for me, yet, another sign of hope. It is these signs of hope that remind us that Easter will come.

In Christ,
Mitch+