Dear Friends,
This week, returning from my bereavement leave, one of the first orders of business was to address the current, very concerning, spike in COVID cases. Yesterday the Reopening Committee gathered and agreed unanimously that, for the safety and care of all of us, all worship will move online. This change is effective immediately. Online only worship begins this Sunday, January 16 and will run at least through the Annual Meeting, Sunday, February 6. At the Annual Meeting we will have a chance to discuss how to proceed and what will come next.
With this change, our weekly worship schedule looks like this:
- Sunday, 8:00 am: Liturgy of the Word via Zoom
- Sunday, 10:30 am: Liturgy of the Word via YouTube and Facebook Live
- Wednesday, 12:15 pm: Service temporarily suspended
- Weekdays, Monday through Friday, 9:00 am: Morning Prayer via Facebook Live
Links for the Sunday services can be found on our website (www.daytonchristepiscopal.com/worship ) and in the weekly newsletter.
In addition I have directed staff to work remotely as much as possible for the time being. The office will remain open from 9 am to 1 pm, Monday through Friday, but with very minimal coverage. Please call, or make an appointment before stopping by the church. All projects at the church should be suspended at this time.
This decision was not easy. All of us would prefer a world where we can safely gather to worship and praise God. Unfortunately, that is not currently possible. With a case rate in Montgomery County now almost twice as high as last winter’s surge, it is time to act. To put aside my own personal preferences. To make it clear that we will care for each other, no matter the inconveniences. To live Christ’s message of self-sacrifice and love into the world around us.
Despite the disappointment of returning to online worship only, I find I am filled with thanks. For a spike which appears less virulent than those earlier in the pandemic. For the relatively light touch, to date, of COVID on the people of Christ Church. For vaccines which make a remarkable difference in illness; For technology which allows us to still gather in Jesus’ name. For our vision and generosity to improve our livestreaming capacity, for moments just like this one.
I ask that you hold in prayer all those who are bearing the full weight of this ongoing pandemic, who are struggling to offer prayers of thanksgiving. For the doctors, nurses, caregivers, teachers, and frontline workers bearing the brunt of care. For the over 5.5 million people worldwide and over 840,000 Americans who have already died. For all those who grieve for them. And pray for yourselves.
If you find you are among those struggling, please reach out. I am only a phone call, email, or Zoom conversation away.
You remain in my daily prayers.
Yours in Christ,
Peter
This is another day, O Lord. I know not what it will bring forth, but make me ready, Lord, for whatever it may be. If I am to stand up, help me to stand gravely. If I am to sit still, help me to sit quietly. If I am to lie low, help me to do it patiently. And if I am to do nothing, let me do it gallantly. Make these words more than words, and give me the Spirit of Jesus. Amen.
(“A Prayer of Ministration to the Sick”, BCP p. 461)