Letter to Congregation 06-16-2021
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
If you were able to join us for worship this past Sunday, you likely heard that God gave Moses the law, which was to be a guide for the Israelites. These laws were primarily based on how to live well in community in those times. Most of the time, it is necessary for us to have guidelines to live well in community. Just like the Israelites, when we live in community well, we glorify God. As I shared in past letters, and other communication, our session has worked hard over the course of the pandemic to make decisions that best meet the needs and concerns of our community. Discerning each step through this was not an easy process and it is still not quite finished. However, we truly have a wonderful group of leaders that faithfully seeks to guide us in being a community that lives into who we have been called to be and glorifies God. As I also mentioned, the decisions regarding the next phase of in-person worship guidelines would be made at this past Sunday’s Session meeting.
To live in community well means we must follow Jesus’ words and example. Understanding this, I share with you that the 4th phase of in-person worship will continue to allow socially distanced seating in the sanctuary and ushers will continue to seat you appropriately. To follow the CDC and PA DOH guidelines, we are lifting the guidance to wear masks if you are fully vaccinated. Keep in mind, if you are vaccinated and still feel more comfortable with a mask, you are welcome to continue wearing it. Those who are unvaccinated are encouraged to continue wearing masks for the sake of the community. You may notice that the pew Bibles and Hymnals are back in the sanctuary. However, we will continue to print the scriptures and music in the bulletin for those who find this safer and/or helpful. Sunday worship will remain abridged to lessen exposure time. I would encourage those who love fellowship, which is many of you, to continue meeting outside after services. You could even bring along your own drink or snack, if you choose to do so. We remain live streaming services, which allows for those who feel more comfortable, or who are dealing with illnesses, an opportunity to worship with us too. As we begin this new phase, may we remember to live well in community so God can be glorified through us.
In His Peace,
Pastor Nicki
*If you are worshiping from home, I would encourage you to use the YouTube platform for optimal streaming quality. Additionally, feel free to sign on early no need to wait right until 10am anymore. *
YouTube: live stream and recording can be found at https://www.espresbyterian.com/worship/ or https://www.youtube.com/user/ESPresbyterian
Facebook: click on the link below near the time the service begins at 10:00am to watch the live stream https://www.facebook.com/espresbyterian/
Additionally, bulletins and an online hymnal have been put on the website and can be found at https://www.espresbyterian.com/worship/sunday-bulletin/
Ways to give– mail or drop of check/cash through no contact mail slot in office window. Drop off envelope in offering plates before or after worship services. Donate on our website by going to the home page at https://www.espresbyterian.com/ and clicking on the Donate button in the upper right corner. Designate where you would like the money to go by using the note section.