It has been a while since I last wrote to you, I had hoped that we would be meeting again by this time, but alas, it is not to be as yet as far as a formal worship setting is concerned. I know many of you are watching various video presentations from around the country and world. There are some of us that do not get much from those and long to see each of you.

An update is in order. The pastorate did have a meeting this month and while we did not have much to talk about, the state of all of you and the building expenses were very much in our discussions.

Our reopening plan has been approved by the mission center, and we will be free to open when Jackson county covid 19 numbers have declined for at least 3 weeks in a row. Until then we will have to be creative in our worship.

Building expenses do keep going to some degree; we have lawn care and utilities to take care of. Cleaning has been suspended for the time being, when reopening takes place we hope to have a different custodial person in place.

I say those things as a gentle reminder to continue to support the congregation as best you can. We have taken this opportunity to do some maintenance on the building and have reduced our capital funds a little as a result. We are meeting our expenses but just barely at this time. I will try and have a report from our financial officer next month.

That brings me to another point. At some point in August, we will have to have a business meeting. I anticipate the leadership team to remain the same as it was last year with the exceptions of Ralph and Duane, who are stepping away from their roles as co pastors. Their service and constant attention to the needs of the congregation, as well as their love for each and every one, is noted and deeply appreciated. They will be missed in these roles. John and Jenny Brewer, along with me are continuing to try and fulfill those roles.

It was also discussed at our meeting how we could perhaps satisfy the desire to meet as a small group and the need to stay safe while doing so. As a result of that discussion, we thought we might try a small get together utilizing lawn chairs and proper distancing, masks, etc, either on the parking lot by the fire pit or perhaps in someone’s driveway if they felt like they could host. We thought that needed a little more thought so stay tuned for further information to come. It will also need to get a little cooler outside to do this!

I will leave you with a scripture that is appropriate for this time and place we find ourselves in;

 Romans chap 5: 1-5 IV

"Therefore, being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. (2) By whom also we have access by faith unto this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.

(3) And not only this, but we glory in tribulations also; knowing that tribulation worketh patience. (4) And patience, experience, and experience, hope. (5) And hope maketh not ashamed because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us."

This is surely a time of tribulation. Continue to pray for one another, as I hold up each of you daily. We will get through this.

Peace and grace to all.

Jim

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