Dear SPC Family,
You are always in our prayers as we live through these challenging times. We are grateful for how we've been able to stay connected as a congregation, while also keeping one another safe. Thank you for all of the ways you continue to reach out and support one another.
We, the Session, met this past Wednesday and, after much conversation and discernment, made some decisions about the fall at SPC:
1. The 9:30AM worship service will remain online only, at least through Sunday, November 22, which is the Sunday before Advent. We also will keep our committee meetings, gatherings, and other activities primarily online--including Church School and Adult Education programs. (You have an ongoing invitation to gather in small groups outside on the church grounds, with masks and social distancing; simply coordinate through the church office!) In the coming weeks, you'll be receiving details about all the ways we'll learn, worship, and grow in faith together this fall.
2. Beginning Sunday, September 13, and continuing through the month of October, we will hold an outdoor time of Morning Prayer at 8:30AM on Sunday mornings. While the weather is still warm enough, this brief (no more than 30 minutes) and informal gathering for scripture and prayer will provide space for those who desire to connect in person at the church. Everyone must bring their own chair and wear a mask, and we'll find a spot on the grounds to gather where we have enough space to observe social distancing. All are welcome, including children.
3. The SPC Preschool will be opening with limited enrollment and protocols that mirror the Three Village School District plans.
4. Based on strong input from the congregation, the Session is committed to making every effort to ensure that we have a permanent online option for worship, even after the pandemic ends. So, the Worship & Music Committee is investigating technology and equipment that will secure live streaming of worship services for the future.
We want to thank the Reopening Team for their hard work in developing recommendations; the committees that have imagined creatively how to be the church in this time; and all of you for your feedback along the way. Please know that as we live into the coming weeks, we may shift and adjust, and we'll communicate any changes as they arise.
We long to worship together in person in our sanctuary, and we pray fervently for that day. But God is always doing a new thing in our midst. So together, may we listen and respond to where God is calling us as a congregation--for the Spirit is at work, and Christ's way is sure!
Please continue to let us know how we can pray for and support you in the coming months.
Peace & grace,
The SPC Session