A Word from Pastor Nathan

Dear Friends:

Everyone has been paying close and careful attention to the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) outbreak. Cuyahoga County has confirmed cases, which has accelerated our response. Christian communities worldwide, both Catholic and Protestant, are taking proactive steps to protect persons who are most vulnerable. We must follow suit.

Yesterday, Chad Vickers, who holds a PhD in public health, spoke to both the elders and board about the virus and what actions we can take to mitigate risk.

On Sunday mornings, we will no longer pass the peace, pew registration pads, or the offering plates. Our communion process will change so that you continue to come forward but will do so with your offering and then proceed to a communion station where a diaconate/elder (wearing gloves) will place a piece of bread and an individual communion cup into your hands. After you’ve received communion, please throw away your cups in trash cans located near the side isle. We will sing the doxology after communion. At the conclusion of the service, I will greet you, as always, but we will need to refrain from physical touch until the threat of the virus subsides.

None of the above steps are a guarantee. But your congregational leaders are, as Rev. Dr. Katie Hays says, “striving for that beautiful balance between confidence in God’s compassionate care and faithful stewardship of the community God has entrusted to us.”

There are also steps that you can take to help diminish risk. First, wash your hands, and do so as often as you think about it. Refrain from touching all of the pew ends when you walk forward for communion/offering. If you’re feeling ill, please stay home. God understands, and so does your church. You can always visit our website to review the worship guide and watch the sermon.

Above are practical suggestions that we will implement, but I encourage you to reflect on what this outbreak means for we who call ourselves Disciples. First, we are not people of fear but abundant hope. Second, we are a people charged with caring for the sick. Third, the virus will disproportionately impact those who are poor, un-insured, or under-insured. Finally, pray.

May God’s healing mercies attend the world without exception or distinction,