August 20, 2021
My dear people of Grace,
Grace to you and peace from God our father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
Ephesians 1:2
It was less than three weeks ago that I wrote concerning the surge of cases attributable to the Delta variant of the Covid virus. Since that time, things have only worsened considerably. The number of new daily cases has increased more than fifty percent. The positivity test rate has increased by approximately thirty percent. We all hear the news about the hospitals and emergency rooms at near capacity. Florida is the epicenter of the pandemic in the United States and Polk County statistics are among the most serious in the State.
Your congregational leaders have been watching this with growing concern for the health and safety of all of us, particularly those who are among the more vulnerable of our community. As we have noted many times before during these times of pandemic, risk and precautions are not an “all or nothing” matter. We think and plan in terms of layers of safety. For example, we may avoid large crowds while still going to the drugstore; we may go to a restaurant but opt for outdoor seating or an off-peak mealtime; we may go on a weekend trip but decide to drive instead of fly.
In similar fashion, here at Grace we are adopting some additional layers of safety. We are increasing the physical distancing back to six feet as it had been earlier this summer. And, unfortunately, we will not join together in the closing hymn. Our communion practice will stay the same, as will the overall liturgy.
In yet another layer of safety, masks will be worn whenever we are on campus with a few exceptions. To minimize possible exposure to the virus, parish gatherings and meetings are being suspended for the time being. We are grateful for Zoom and internet technology that makes it possible for us to continue the ministry of the church. If you need assistance in using this technology, please let me know so that we can be of assistance.
This is not a step that wanted to take but feel compelled to out of our love for each other and our neighbor. Along with the members of Council and of the Covid Response Task Force, I am happy to talk with you about any questions or concerns that you may have.
As St. Paul wrote to the Galatians, “Let us not grow weary in doing what is right, for we will reap at harvest time, if we do not give up. So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith.”
Peace and grace,
Pastor Pam
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