Like everyone, we were pleasantly surprised when the CDC changed their guidance to loosen the restrictions surrounding mask-wearing. We on the Executive Committee are very aware of our many church members who are eagerly awaiting the ability to attend church without wearing a mask or being socially-distanced. At the same time, there are other members who, for a variety of reasons, do not yet feel comfortable sitting closely together or discontinuing the use of a face mask.

Taking both positions into consideration, we feel that the next natural phase in our reopening is to allow places within the sanctuary for both groups to feel comfortable and welcome. Therefore the following adjustments to seating in our sanctuary have taken place:

We realize that any change takes some getting used to, and there will be signage and guidance from the ushers to help everyone with this new system. Note that we intend for this seating arrangement to be temporary, with Emmanuel eventually returning to seating in every pew (mask wearing will always be optional).

We ask all members for patience as we work through these last phases of the coronavirus pandemic. We understand that some members may not be able to sit in their favorite spot, and we appreciate the sacrifices that everyone is willing to make in order for all of our brothers and sisters in Christ to feel welcome and safe.

As you know, we are eliminating the "red books" and going to an online method. We need this information to help us identify members who might need a care call and for synod reporting at the end of the year relating to the demographics of those worshiping with us. There are 3 ways to do this:

This can be done anytime through your phone - even while on your way to worship or sitting in the pew - if you happen to forget. There will be a place available in the Narthex to sign-in if you are unable to do so online.

All meetings, whether in-person or via zoom, need to be scheduled through the office. It's a good idea to check on availability before you tell your members. This goes for both the office area, church building, Rowe Hall, Narthex collections, etc. Thanks.

Also, we are trying to post pictures of Emmanuel activities on the Events Page of our Website, https://www.emmanuel-elca.org/events. So take pictures and send to the office so we can see our "members in action".

Summer hours for the office beginning June 1 will be Monday - Thursday 8:30am-2pm. We will be closed Monday, May 31st in observance of Memorial Day.

The South County Food Pantry cart will be in the Narthex to accept donations. Please only bring items when you come to worship. Donations during the week may be dropped off at the Pantry located at 121 Warfield Ave, Venice, 9am to 12noon weekdays.

As we plan for more activities at Emmanuel, we are in need of Blood Pressure Volunteers. Contact Barb at parishnurse@emmanuel-elca.org.

Here are 2 facts about potatoes: they’re extremely nutritious but you should probably cut back on how often you eat them!

They have lots of Potassium, but also vitamin B6 & C, iron, magnesium, antioxidants, and fiber. BUT they raise blood sugar rapidly after you eat them increasing risk of cardiovascular disease, hypertension, type 2 diabetes, and excess weight.  So, think of them as a carb, not a vegetable.

Women over 50 should eat no more than 4 cups of starchy vegetables a week, and for men it’s 5 cups.

So, cut down on frequency (especially French Fries), and all the toppings we put on (butter, bacon, cheese, sour cream, etc.) I LOVE potatoes!!

Stay after the 8:30 worship or come early to the 10:00 worship as Coffee Fellowship has returned Sundays at the round tables outside the Fellowship Hall. Click below to help Mary Ann Barsness with this in June.

Embark on an epic quest through hidden ruins, ancient caves, and dense jungles. At Treasured VBS, kids dig into action-packed, faith-filled adventures. They’ll discover God’s greatest treasure isn’t diamonds, gems, or gold–it's them! Click the button below to view an introduction video and for online registration for both kids and volunteers.

Volunteers are still needed to help with VBS. Contact the office or me at youthdirector@emmanuel-elca.org. Thanks for your support of VBS.

Nick Sperry, Youth Director

WELCA Women's Circle Groups are meeting.

Explore Centering Prayer to enrich your prayer life. Birdie Clark leads this group for those new to Centering Prayer as well as those who have perhaps practiced before on Fridays at 9:30am. All are welcome!

Please email or phone Birdie if you are interested or have questions at birdieclark48@aol.com or 941.488.4360.

Click the links below to reserve your date to remember or honor a loved one or a special event by sponsoring the Altar Flowers or Eternal Candle. Please submit your dedication and payment no later than 2 weeks prior to your reserved date. If you have any questions or are unable to sign-up online, contact the office.

Pastor Hall: rhall@emmanuel-elca.org

Visitation Pastor: Pastor Dave Hess

Jason Kozee: facilitiesmanager@emmanuel-elca.org

Kris Bowker: kbowker@emmanuel-elca.org

Debi Hammett: dhammett@emmanuel-elca.org

Kelley Hurlburt: khurlburt@emmanuel-elca.org

Becky Rothgery: info@emmanuel-elca.org

Barb Spenks: parishnurse@emmanuel-elca.org

Nick Sperry: youthdirector@emmanuel-elca.org