Letter to Congregation 09-02-2020
Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,
In my inbox this morning was another thought-provoking writing from a friend of mine. This short writing was inspired by Revelation 21:5 “…See I am making all things new.” She is noting the pain of losses due to virus and division in our country, but is reminded that God is making all things new. I find comfort in these words. That even in these seemingly depressive inducing times God is making things new. Over the course of this pandemic our church has been made new, new friendships formed, new programs, new ministries, new ways of being the voice and hands of God in our community and in the world and more.
One of those new ways is our outdoor services, which I think will become a permanent part of ESPC’s ministry. These services are an opportunity for us to invite those in our community to worship with us in a new and exciting way. We don’t know what that full “new” will look like, but we trust that God does. This week, we will have another outdoor service, of course, this is always weather pending. Additionally, this Sunday we will be communing together at the Lord’s Supper in these new ways. I would invite you to do as we have in recent months by bringing along your own communion elements to whatever space you choose to worship. To do so gather the “bread” which can be a slice of ordinary bread, a roll, cracker, cookie, goldfish cracker, etc. anything will do. Don’t feel the need to go out and purchase anything, just use whatever food item you have on hand. Also, gather the “fruit of the vine” which can be juice, wine, water, or any beverage you have on hand. We continue with our other “new” way by streaming live on Facebook and YouTube for those who can and desire to remain worshiping remotely.
I am also excited to announce another new way we will be doing fellowship with our outdoor luncheon/trivia that will take place directly after the outdoor service this week. The Fellowship Committee is asking everyone who comes to bring their own food, drink and picnic set (silverware, napkins, blanket to sit on or individual table and chair). They are also asking participants to please set up their picnic area outside of their car after the service is over. A print-out trivia game will be played so bring something with which to write. Please note we will not be sharing food.
Let us all find comfort and rejoice in knowing God is making all things new. And let us come together in these new ways to glorify our amazing God.
In His Peace,
Pastor Nicki
Some helpful links…
Click on the link below near the time the service begins at 10:00am to watch the live stream https://www.facebook.com/espresbyterian/
YouTube recording can be found at https://www.espresbyterian.com/worship/ or https://www.youtube.com/user/ESPresbyterian
Additionally, bulletins and an online hymnal have been put on the website and can be found at https://www.espresbyterian.com/worship/sunday-bulletin/
