The Latest COVID-19 Wave and Variant - A Pastor’s Reflection

As of July 29, 2022, we kindly ask that you wear a mask during worship and at church functions.

It’s been a long two-plus years with COVID-19.

Several times we have felt like it was over only to be disappointed. I know, like me, you have seen the news reports that tell us this is not something that will ever go away. It will be like the flu, a continual threat within our lives like so many. For many, this information makes it go to the background of concern. For others, the fear is still very present.

We have recently had some of our members sick with the current strain that is sweeping the country. It is no joke. But it is not as deadly or as likely to put people in the hospital if they are vaccinated and take medications if at high risk. It is, however, incredibly contagious, and the risk of being exposed is high. We now kindly ask you wear a mask during worship and church functions. But we also know that the risk is real. If you are at high risk, it might be best to wear an N95 mask to church and eat at the outside picnic table for meals or stay home and worship with us online. If you would like a test before the service on Sunday, the Outland Family Clinic at Ebb’s Chapel will be open for testing from 8:45- 9:20 am on Sundays.

We want everyone to be safe, and we want for the connection of our community to grow. It is hard to hold both of these things. But we are trying.

With increasing numbers of people getting sick, the divisive nature of politics, the changing of the right to abortion which many felt would never change, and the fear of more rights that could be lost, the world might seem unsettled and scary right now. I understand that feeling. I encourage you to remember that the people of faith have weathered greater challenges than these throughout the years. The people of God are a people who have to regain our balance on the changing landscape and move forward in faith. We are not alone in this challenge. We have our community of faith. We have the Spirit of God that lives and breathes within us. With such strength on our side, what can keep us down!

And don’t forget, love casts out fear.

Peace,

Lisa