Crossroads Re-Opening Update from Darren Kraabel
We are incredibly blessed! While we have not been able to engage with each other in traditional fellowship over the past several weeks, we have seen the resilience of Crossroads as we continue to minister to those in need, providing unwavering hope to all. And, we have witnessed tremendous creativity in virtual worship services and online ministries that continue to transform the world, one person at a time.
It has not been easy, and I know that nothing can fully replace in-person engagement. God created us to be social creatures that are energized and inspired by physically interacting with those around us. That is why fellowship is such an important part of every congregation.
So, I’m pleased to share that we have begun preparing for our return to in-person ministry at Crossroads. We recently established a Healthy Church Team, in accordance with the VA United Methodist Bishop’s guidance, that is working to define the timeline and protocols for re-instating in-person activities for all areas of Crossroads ministry. Our team includes medical and legal experts, as well as representatives from our pre-school and congregational members at large.
We will be working towards the restoration of in-person worship on September 6
th
, the date set for our Grand Reopening by the TREK to Recalibrate Vision and Mission Team. Between now and then, we will likely allow small group activities following specific health and safety protocols in the church facility, as conditions allow. These protocols will incorporate guidance from the Bishop and various government agencies, as well as lessons learned from our own experiences and other churches in our area.
As we learn and grow over the coming weeks, it is important to recognize that things may not return exactly as they were before. Many changes will be good ones. For example, we are learning how to improve our virtual worship services and those enhancements are likely to continue in some fashion as an on-line worship offering to those who cannot join us on Sunday morning for whatever reason. Similarly, the health protocols we establish will make our facility a safer place for everyone.
Amongst all this change, effective communication is important. You need to understand how and when we are moving forward. To that end, we will be providing weekly updates on our progress, sharing the new protocols that will be implemented that allow us to gather again in person.
I’m excited to be part of the Healthy Church Team and look forward to engaging with you and the team throughout this process. If you have any questions or concerns, I would love to listen and encourage you to call/text me at 586.651.6499 or email me at
ddandkconsulting@gmail.com
.
