Thank you for your on-going partnership in the gospel! Though we have not been able to meet in person, we continue in our mission to “Gather as a people of Christ, serving with love, hope and faith!”
Special thanks to all who completed the “Return to In-Person Worship Survey”! The survey was open June 6-28, the results were compiled on June 29. At the July 6 council meeting, we considered all of the feedback we have received; the Illinois Department of Health Guidelines; the ELCA ‘s Considerations for Returning to In-person Worship; and the well-being of the whole congregation. Here are the main outcomes of our work:
The Church Council and I intend for us to resume in-person worship and congregational activities as soon as it is safe for our whole community to do so. Due to all the safety concerns and guidelines, this will be a gradual process.
The Council has created a CoVid 19 Response Task Force that is actively developing policies and procedures for in-person worship and activities. This team consists of Bill Wescott, Andrea Wright, Kevin Arnold, Natalie Ramos and Pastor Bree Truax. Their diligent work will guide us in our step by step journey to return to in-person worship and activities.
The Council voted unanimously to support indefinitely the continuation of weekly Tri Church online and conference call worship.
I realize it is very difficult and perhaps painful to be unable to gather in person at this time. Please know that we are persistently working to pave a way for safe in-person gatherings. Please remember, we are the church whether we are able to meet in person in or not. We are always gathered together in Christ, fueled by the Spirit, and look forward to the day that it will be safe for all of us to gather in person for worship, Bible Study, service and other activities. God meets us in everyday life; loves, forgives and commends us to work together for the good of all people. We are all a part of the Body of Christ together and each person is essential to the whole. Your continued partnership in the gospel has allowed ministry and support of service work to continue! Thank you!
As always, please reach out to me with any comments or concerns. My cell phone number is 360-989-4906 and my email is [email protected]. The Church Council is also glad to hear from you. Their contact information is in the Church Newsletter each month.
God sustain you—
Pastor Bree Truax and Immanuel Church Council