Dear Friends and Family of Grace,

Let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, 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.                                    Galatians 6:9-10

    Well, the summer is well upon us. We are aware of many from our midst who have gone up north for the season and we look forward to their return in the fall. As temperatures climb, we set our air conditioning a bit cooler and heed the cautions to drink plenty of water. We may move a bit slower in the heat and may tackle physical chores a bit earlier in the day. Yes, we accommodate to the season surrounding us.

    I want to take this opportunity to update you on a few things important to our gathering together. I understand that we may be tired of masks; I know that I am. Yet, the Covid Response Task Force believes that it is important for us to continue this along with other safety precautions because of the combination of many reasons. While we no longer have daily data, that which has been reported for the last two weeks shows that the number of cases in Polk County is increasing while the rate of vaccinations is slowing; fewer than one-half of the those eligible have been fully vaccinated. Also, the Delta Variant is causing an increasing number of infections; this variant causes more serious illness and is more readily transmitted. 

    Out of care for the most vulnerable among us, love for our children who cannot yet be vaccinated, and for the visitor whom we want to feel welcome, we will continue with masks at this time. Some have asked if we cannot remove our masks while we are seated with our “pod.” This is a good question. Unfortunately, this virus is spread by aerosols, those tiny particles that go into the air when one coughs or sneezes or talks or sings. The mask protects not only by limiting what we inhale but also by limiting what we exhale into the air around us. 

    And, I would remind that the risk of transmission by touching an item that has some of the virus on it, fomite transmission, is very slim particularly when one practices frequent handwashing or sanitizing. We continue our strong recommendation that people take advantage of the hand sanitizer in the narthex when they enter for worship and again when leaving. 

    As I have said before, the risks that we take are not an “all or nothing” matter. The risks to which we are exposed accumulate so reducing the risks when and where we can will help in our fight against this virus. Thank you for your understanding and patience.

    This coming Sunday, July 4th, we will resume communing under both kinds – bread and wine. This certainly is our preferred means of participating in Holy Communion. We will continue to commune at the head of the aisle, alternating pews on either side of the sanctuary as this helps maintain the 3 foot distance recommended by the CDC. After receiving the host, a tray of individual cups at a safe distance will be available. This will have been prepared by members of the Altar Guild who take appropriate safety precautions including hand sanitizing and mask wearing while setting up.  It is not necessary or required for you to receive both elements, bread and wine. Jesus is fully present in either one alone.

    I hope that you are enjoying your summer and the change in routine it brings. I am happy to talk further with you about these matters or anything else, even if just a chat to get caught up. Just let me know. So, wash your hands, wear your mask, keep a safe distance. And “do not grow weary in doing good.”

                                                                                                            In Christ’s love,
                                                                                                                                   
                                                                                                              Pastor Pam Smith