Saturday, May 23, 2020

Peace be with you in our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!

It has been a while since our last email, but I pray that all is well with each and every one of you. The life of the church continues to go on as the Word endures forever! Though our in-gathering services are on a hiatus, we continue to unite as the body of Christ in His Word and Sacraments. I pray that God’s peace may lead you throughout the pandemic.

It has been a trying time to say the least. But thanks be to God for His merciful care as He continues to be “your keeper..your shade on your right hand” [Ps121:5b]. I pray that the online services, bible studies as well as the daily devotions on Facebook Live have been helpful for you. Yes, we do our best to extend the Word of God to you in these times of isolation. Sadly, they cannot replicate the joys of gathering together and encouraging one another at church [Heb 10:24-25].

But nonetheless, throughout the pandemic, it has been a joy to call, text, and chat with you. In a sense, in my short time here, I’ve gotten to know you more during these times than ever before. I'm always here for you. If you ever need a visit, or even a chat, I’m always a phone call away. Are you in need of the Sacrament? I will joyfully come and give you the true body and blood of our Lord for the forgiveness of your sins.

Some highlights!

Jeff Mark and Chris Deklotz - Thank you for all that you have done and continue to do for our congregation. A blessing it is to see your faithful efforts aid our whole congregation through music and technology. I thank you both for playing a pivotal role in our preparations for our live services. Thanks be to God for you time and talents that you contribute at Faith.

Dave Anderson - Thank you for your humble efforts in our fellowship hall. When everyone comes back to church, they will be impressed by the progress! Thank you for the endless hours you have contributed to make our fellowship hall new again.

Elders - Thank you for your wisdom, prayers, and grace as it has been a privilege to walk alongside each and every one of you. You have been a great help during this important time as we have made prayerful decisions together.

Council - Thank you for your support as you continue to gather and discuss the welfare of the church. All your efforts have greatly contributed to the seamless operations here at Faith. I appreciate the time and talents that God has given you to help us through these unique times.

Thanks be to God for Aaron Anthony Payne as He was baptized into Christ on May 9th 2020. By the power of God’s Word in the water, little Aaron was gathered into God’s kingdom by the means of grace. God’s powerful word and promise will never be deterred, even during the pandemic! A gracious blessing to see God’s grace wrap little Aaron into His robe of righteousness! Thanks be to God for His bountiful blessings!

In other developments, as we see our country progress during the pandemic, we have also discussed our next steps at Faith.

Beginning on Sunday May 31st, we will have our first in-person Divine service at Faith.

• Sunday service times will be at 8:30am and 10:00am
• Communion will be given at the conclusion of each service
• For those who do not attend in-person Divine services, communion will be offered on Sundays from Noon - 2pm
• Live Stream (via Facebook Live & YouTube Live) will continue at the 8:30am service.
• Sunday school and adult bible study will not resume until we return to one service
• Wednesday Vespers at 7pm will also be available in-person and via live stream.

Further worship notes

• Please sign up (link below, or email/call to register) for which service you will attend. We plan to have a maximum of 20 people at each service. It is important that we comply with social distancing guidelines for the sake of our neighbor.
• The fellowship hall will be used as an overflow worship space if needed.
• Assigned seats will be given to each family group
• For the health and well-being of your neighbor, please wear a mask when you attend Sunday service. If you do not have one, we will provide one for you.
• Between services we will wipe down and clean door handles and other areas of exposure.
• Passing of the peace along with the offering plate will be omitted during service. The Offering plate will be placed near the door. You may also continue to give online.
• If you are symptomatic or have any other health concerns, please take the proper precautions and watch online service from home.

I pray that these temporary adjustments will help in our efforts to worship together again. Things may change but for now, this is what we plan to do. If you have questions or concerns, please let me or one of the elders know. We are here for you!

In Christ,
Pastor Jeong
Faith Lutheran Church

✝️ Worship Service Reservations - in order to maintain social distance requirements during COVID-19 we will limit the number in attendance and require reservations for our Sunday Worship Services. Please select the service time and number of people in your family that will attend. You may also call the church office to make a reservation. Thank you!