Dear friends,
I am writing with a few follow-ups to the email we sent out on Thursday announcing Bishop Haynes' decision to cancel all church services and activities for the next two weeks. We recognize that church is a meaningful part of many peoples' lives, and we know that while isolation and social distancing may be a wise public health precaution it can also be hard for the soul. To that end, we want to outline a few ways for us to stay connected in the days ahead.
Our first priority is for our mutual care and well-being. The clergy are working with the pastoral care team to develop a list of parishioners to whom we will reach out next week to ensure that they are well and have the supplies they need. If we don't contact you and you need any help (e.g. a run to the grocery store or pharmacy if you are not able to get out), please contact
Andie.
The staff mostly will be working from home, though some of us occasionally will be in the office. We will be accessible by email and cell phone and will check the church voicemail at least once each day.
We have created a
YouTube page
for St. Andrew's, and Andie and I will be posting short videos featuring prayers and reflections each of the next two Sundays, in addition to mid-week videos on Wednesdays. These will help us keep our pattern of worship alive, albeit digitally rather than in-person. We will distribute them via email and on the church
Facebook
page. This Sunday, March 15, you also may wish to watch the
streamed service at the National Cathedral
. Presiding Bishop Michael Curry is the preacher and presider. I don't think there will be worshippers in the pews, but I have no doubt he will fill the space nonetheless!
Our diocesan office also has compiled a list of additional worship resources - everything from streamed services to audio recordings of morning or evening prayer.
You can find them here.
Finally, know that we also are keeping our eyes, ears, and hearts open to ways to support those in our broader community who are the most vulnerable in terms of health, income, etc. As plans and ideas emerge regarding ways to help, we will keep you posted.
We pray that all of you stay safe and well during this uncertain time. It is important to care for one another in love, and to pray that God's healing and Holy Spirit will surround us always.
Faithfully,
John
