Church Community Update

March 13, 2020

Beloved Community,

Since my email of yesterday there have been two significant developments in the community response to COVID-19 (Novel Coronavirus). 1.  The Southern New England Conference of the United Church of Christ has recommended that our churches suspend public worship for at least the next two weeks, and 2. The Norwood Public Schools are closed today reopening March 23rd (this, of course, is subject to change).

In light of these new developments and in consultation with our church moderator and vice-moderator, we will take the advice of our Conference and suspend public worship March 15, 22, and possibly 29.  We will surely keep you informed of our next gathering for worship.  We also ask that other church activities be suspended (rehearsals, meetings, game night) or conducted via email at this time to protect those vulnerable to this new virus and participate in the health and wellbeing of our community.

As we navigate these uncharted waters, I wanted to let you know that we plan to have an abbreviated worship service that you will be able to access on our church’s facebook page and website.  Thank you for tuning in and for praying on Sunday, as I trust you have been as we watch and wait.  This may also be a time that you would like either mail contributions to the church or sign up for online giving via our website. This will help the church continue in it’s ongoing financial responsibilities.

If you have questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me or the office.

In this unprecedented time, it is good to remember that the church is not a building, but a community of faithful people seeking and living out the grace of Christ through love, service and justice.  To that end, I would encourage you to reach out to church members, friends, and others who may be experiencing anxiety or isolation via phone, social media, email, or in person should you not fall into a high risk category.

I am reminded of the scripture that calls upon God, “our refuge and strength, and ever-present help in trouble.” (Psalm 43:1-3) May we find shelter in that refuge, and find comfort in God’s abiding presence.

Please know that you are likely to receive more emails from me as we continue to be the church together and as public health recommendations change.

Thank you, dear church, for reading, and for the love and care you show one another.  I am so very fortunate to be your pastor,

Pastor Michele