The world, as we have known it, has changed drastically over the past two and a half years. A pandemic, social unrest, political upheaval and a fragile economy have all been major causes that have directly affected how we live our lives and go about our daily routines and, in some instances, led to some serious introspection.
One aspect that has not been altered is our faith. Our faith in Christ and our faith in St. Matthew Lutheran Church. St. Matthew’s has fared far better than many churches during recent times, as reported by members of our staff and council who have been in contact with other congregations and denominations. I believe that this can be directly attributed to our faith and the leadership that’s been provided by Pastor Eric and his staff. St. Matthew’s has had to pivot, on many occasions, and alter how we go about our business, but has survived thus far and has continued to “Reach out, through Christ, in loving worship, witness and service.” That being stated, the Covid pandemic, specifically, forced us to change our worship schedule, how we gather to worship and our Sunday School model.
At the last Council meeting, a decision was made to revamp the service schedule and the Sunday School model, as well as Adult Forum and Fellowship.
Starting in September, SMLC will have an early service, beginning at 8:30 a.m. and running until 9:00 a.m. This will be an abbreviated service with little music and a short simple order of worship. It will include communion. This service has been designed to accommodate our congregants with Covid concerns who are not yet comfortable with a larger-attended service. This service will follow full Covid protocols, to include the wearing of masks and social distancing, and will not be live streamed.
Sunday School and Adult Forum will begin at 9:15 a.m. and run until 10:00 am. They will run in a similar manner to our pre-Covid schedule.
A second service will begin at 10:15 a.m. and run until approximately 11:15 a.m. This will be a full service with considerably more flexible Covid protocols. Of course, anyone who wishes to continue to wear a mask is encouraged to do so. This service will continue to be offered via live stream.
With regards to Adult forum and Fellowship, light food and coffee will continue to be offered in either the Shockey Lounge or the Library, prior to 9:15, and in some instances for a short period after the 10:15 service. This model for Fellowship and Adult forum is fluid at the moment and may be subject to minor adjustments through trial and error.
This schedule was developed as a means to allow St. Matthew Lutheran Church to be more accommodating and inclusive of all of its members. It’s hoped that it will allow those with Covid concerns, specifically regarding crowded gatherings, to return to the church for worship and feel secure and comfortable while being there.
Hopefully, it will also provide a more stable schedule and atmosphere for our children to return to Sunday School. Lastly, this will allow those who are comfortable to gather and enjoy one and other’s company through Fellowship and Adult Forum. It is Council’s hope that we attempt to meet everyone’s needs as best as possible as we move forward.
Peace.