Dear Members and Friends of St. John’s,

This weekend, August 29-30, we will have an online worship Service only.  The suspension of our in-person Services for a short time is necessary because my family has been exposed to the virus and will be quarantined (we have no symptoms at this time).  Other contingencies for the Services without my presence aren’t feasible, so our Elders have chosen to go online with Service.  I’m sorry. 

I’m also glad that we can still worship!  St. John’s will broadcast our Service via YouTube, Facebook, and our website.  The Service will also be displayed on Mediacom local channel 81 at 10:00am Sunday.  Those who normally receive a DVD of the Service by mail will receive it as usual.   The Service folder will be posted on our website so that you can follow along, singing the music and participating in all the responses. 

The launch of our new Sunday School year will have to wait just a little longer.  For that, I’m really sorry.  I know our teachers and families, from Kindergarten through adults, were eager to be back together around our “Enduring Faith” curriculum.  That will come!  Let’s be there!

This interruption is an opportunity to remember and practice the truth that worship is not optional for us Christians.  Every Lord’s Day we have the opportunity, need, and expectation to gather around God’s Word and to respond in prayer, praise, and thanks (Third Commandment).  This weekend that will necessarily be remotely … but it will still be real. 

Thank you for your understanding.  I will share more updates via email, Facebook, and our website. If you suspect that a fellow member of the Body of Christ didn’t get this information electronically, kindly reach out to them and share it.  Care for one another and keep praying.  Thank you.  We’ll be back to our 4-Service schedule as soon as possible.  Until then, we’re still God’s Church!  His peace be with you all,

Pastor Burdick