This Week from Mitch
Dear St. Martin's,
This morning, after both of my children, tested positive for COVID, I found myself trying my best to make a plan for the days ahead. Denise and I have both tested negative, but following appropriate CDC guidelines, we are quarantining for the next five days during which we will be tested again.
With children in school, there is a part of me that feels like it was just our family's turn to face the inevitable. I plan to work from home and now that we are able to isolate and mask, I hope, with a negative test, to be able to return to the office Tuesday or Wednesday of next week.
In the meantime, Denise and I will appreciate your prayers. Also, please know that our children are fully vaccinated and are feeling very mild symptoms. As a parent of two children in school, I know that this is a very common story in our community.
Omicron, of course, has been on a lot of people's minds. We will continue with our zone system at church. The Blue Zone is masked. The Green Zone is mask-optional for vaccinated people. We will also continue to mask when gathering in groups where physical distancing is not possible. Depending on the weather, we will use outside spaces and our patio/deck heaters. We will continue to do our best to be safe, understanding that our policies of masking and encouraging vaccination are out of love for our neighbors. No more, no less.
I am not worried about the Smith family and COVID. I am worried about those in our community who are vulnerable. We mask and encourage vaccines because we care about them.
Along with COVID being on everyone's mind, I have received multiple text messages about snow, ice, and Sunday. I have asked Antonio to make sure there is salt for our walkways. As of now, church will be open. I do not see us canceling. Should we need to cancel, the announcement will be made on our web page and social media pages. If accumulation happens, I encourage everyone to use their best judgment about coming to church. If you feel unsafe, please watch on our YouTube channel. Ushers, please be extra mindful about helping people inside.
On a positive note, the giant metal salad bowls and cookie sheets in the kitchen will make awesome sleds for our youth group. The hill going down to Crayton's football field is ideal!
I pray that in the midst of the crazy, there will be an opportunity for fellowship and fun. Denise and I will miss seeing you all this Sunday. I am grateful for Caitlyn and Chris Jillard, who will be leading us in worship. As always, I encourage everyone to stay safe.
In Christ,
Mitch+
