Christmas Eve Announcmemnt
Dear Redeemer,
I write you with the knowledge and joy that Emmanuel, God Among Us, is known and felt to all the faithful this upcoming Christmastide.
Our recent suspension of public worship has been difficult for all of us, especially as observing protocols during the pandemic has taken or changed so many marks of celebration from us. I have given away many earned and needed celebrations and suffered emotional losses, as have we all.
This Advent season of expectation and preparation has been fraught with challenges. For many, the loss of a customary Christmas celebration at the end of a turbulent 2020 seems like the last straw. I hear that pain and share in it. We all need a "Silent Night."
That said, Bishop Seage has issued revised guidance, effective December 24, to permit in-public, outdoor celebration of Christmas. Following his direction and a meeting I participated in with Dr. Thomas Dobbs last Wednesday, Redeemer is offering a Christmas Eve celebration that will be
Outdoors. Bundle up, mask up, observing social distancing.
Limited to 30 minutes or less.
No congregational singing.
These are in keeping with medical and diocesan directives.
I feel your frustration knowing that the church next door may be open for business as usual. However, given the staggering numbers in Lincoln County, my regular consultation with the Chief Nurse at KDMC, and the local businesses that have had to close due to the pandemic, I am very happy with this guidance.
Those who worship online know that we will continue with our full online service streamed from the Nave, including festive song and cheer.
Yes, I know both meeting in-person and not holding public gatherings threatens the future of our church. Yet, I believe that God is fully present now and will be fully present in our Christmas worship services.
Know that I and the bishop monitor the situation daily. When it is safe to make changes, I will let you know.
Our Christmas Eve Schedule
4:00-4:30 Outdoor Worship
6:00-7:00 Online Worship
Know that I and the bishop monitor the situation daily. When it is safe to make changes, I will let you know.
God bless,
Andrew+