September 18, 2020
Dear Friends,,
The Vestry met last night, and a large part of our time was dedicated to a discussion about the possibility of returning to worship in our church building. After a lengthy and heartfelt conversation, the Vestry came to a unanimous agreement that our Sunday services should continue on Zoom. The current requirements for in-person worship necessitate steps that would diminish our liturgical experience. More importantly too many risk factors remain for gathering indoors, especially as we move into flu season and colder temperatures. While Vestry assessment will continue from month to month, it is our expectation that the majority of our activities will continue online through 2020 at least.
For parishioners who are comfortable traveling to Holy Apostles and spending time in the building, beginning on October 5, a service of Holy Eucharist will be offered on Monday afternoons at 5:00 pm. This will be a spoken service in the Muriel Moore Chapel. Masks and distancing will be required, bathrooms will need to remain closed, and attendees will need to give their names and numbers for contact tracing.
Please note that our Adult Forum will begin next Sunday, September 27. Gatherings will happen online from noon to 12:45, after Morning Prayer and time together in breakout rooms. A schedule of subjects to be discussed will be sent out next week. Ellen is working with our families to offer some online opportunities for children to stay engaged, and Tim is exploring options for enhancing music offered virtually.
Thanks to all of you for your patience and your continuing care for one another. The clergy will continue reaching out to people on a regular rotating basis, and as always, you should feel welcome to reach out to any of us at any time. As the seasons change, we will continue to discern together how to worship and minister to all who love Holy Apostles and consider our community a spiritual home.
