April 5, 2020
This past Tuesday evening, the vestry had a Zoom teleconference to discuss recent developments at Immanuel in light of the corona virus crisis. But before we get to that, I wanted you to know that we had a very special guest join us for a portion of that meeting: our new rector, Fr. Travis Hines. It was such a ray of sunshine and encouragement that I know we all cherished. You see, while Travis is not here yet, his heart is and his being with us that night via video gave us a taste of what a great rector he will be. There is much excitement about where God will lead us, a community of strong faith, during Immanuel’s next phase.
Now, to a number of important issues:
1. Given the governor’s recent order to stay at home, we’ve decided that as much as we enjoyed providing the service that appeared on our website, we’re going to have to suspend that for now.
2. We will continue to have Sunday service. This month, Fr. Richard Crocker will be joining us and what we’ve planned for now is his reading the service which will be available as a video on our website next to the bulletin. We will be sending out a notice as to when the videos for Holy Week services will be available on our website. In addition, we are constantly exploring new possibilities for staying connected via the internet. We’ve already had two Bible study groups use Zoom conferencing.
3 Again, in keeping with the governor’s order, our office will be closed for the time being. Phone calls and mail will be forwarded to the home of Tyra Harpster, our parish administrator. The health and well-being of our Immanuel staff is of foremost importance.
4. Our phone bank callers will continue with what our feedback shows is a very successful ministry and we are so appreciative of that dedicated group of callers. As this crisis drags on, and you feel there is an area in which you need some help, please let the callers know so we can consider the most appropriate way to assist you.
5. Backpacks for Kids is continuing to provide weekend meals to families even though school is shutdown. We are working in conjunction with Coles Elementary School to-go meals on Friday mornings to provide food bags. Donations can be bought through our Amazon Wish List
checks can be mailed to the church office. If you have donations to be dropped off or picked up, please contact Melissa atmbyers@iachurch.org.
C.S. Lewis wrote: “I believe in Christianity as I believe that the sun has risen, not only because I see it, but because by it I see everything else.” Clear as day: God is in charge of everything.
Faithfully,
Rich Garon
Senior Warden