Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
Yesterday, I was talking with a family member who falls into what has come to be called the “nones and dones”; those who have no religious affiliation or those who are done with organized religion. He is someone who falls on the done side. He was sharing about a work conversation he had about the hypocrisy and church scandals, causing the group to categorize all professing Christians as fools. He explained that he agreed with them, except when it came to me, who, as he put it, was like no other Christian he ever met. Someone who acknowledged their imperfections and tried not to judge. I was grateful to hear this and recognize I know many other Christians like this, too. We may not always realize it, but often we have opportunities to be an example of Christ’s disciple, who is willing to be vulnerable enough to admit our faults so that relationships with nones and dones, can be built and flourish. Relationships are what Jesus knew were needed to help his disciples believe he was who he said he was. We, too, will benefit from building relationships so others can see we are not hypocrites, just human sinners in need of God’s grace.
When we gather for worship, we have the opportunity to be an example of Christ for the world that can help us build relationships with nones and dones. This week, we continue in the 4th phase of in-person worship. We continue to allow socially distanced seating in the sanctuary and ushers will continue to seat you appropriately. As you will see posted around the church, we are following CDC and PA DOH guidelines regarding masks. Those who are unvaccinated are requested to wear masks and for those who are vaccinated, it is up to you. As I explained to one congregant, the leadership is working hard to ensure all continue to feel safe and welcome, which means we also continue with abridged services and socially distancing as much as possible. As I said in last week’s letter, those who would like to fellowship are welcome to continue meeting outside after services and can even bring along a snack and drink. As we come together, this week and every week, may we remember that in every relationship we are to be living examples of Christ.
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.
