It’s difficult to keep up with all the breaking news this week, but we are working to be responsible and healthy as we minister in Christ together as a congregation. I’m so thankful for all of you. We are keeping the health and wellness of our community, and communities across the globe, in prayer this day.

Based on everything we’ve received and read so far, I think we have been taking the correct steps as a congregation around COVID-19, and I’m proposing these additional action steps and preparations moving forward:

For worship this Sunday, we will change our worship practices. From the moment you enter the church, we will ask greeters to simply greet you by voice but without touch of handshake or hug. We will ask all of us to refrain from handshaking and hugging. (At Ascension that can be really difficult for us but absolutely necessary in tending the health and care of each other.) The offering plates will not be passed but placed on stands where you can share your offering. We will also no longer share the peace during worship. During communion, we will no longer offer the common cup or bread. Everyone will be invited to receive a wafer and drink from individual cups. After worship, Tony, Edwin, and I will not greet in receiving line where there is a temptation to shake hands. Additionally, please know we have already implemented additional cleaning measures around the church.

The staff has met and the church council is meeting this weekend to make sure all necessary steps are in place for us to continue ministry whether we gather in person or via the internet. Last night, in speaking with our Director of Care Ministries, Brenda Lytle, RN, we have decided to discontinue pastoral assistant visits to all members. If you are in need of a visit, you may reach out to the church office or Pastor Chris.

It is a strong possibility that we will choose to close the building to all outside community groups and ministry activities this coming Sunday. If that becomes the reality, we will inform you as quickly as possible.

If we cancel worship and other events for a period of time, we will offer additional communication in various formats, providing spiritual resources (worship/sermons on our website, Youtube channel, and Facebook and by e-alerts). We also encourage you to consider online giving. Remember that setting up recurring online giving is the best way to ensure financial support of our church. Please know that the staff and council continue to tend the needs of our community and the building during this time.

This is a continually-evolving situation and could change tomorrow or next week. We will keep you updated. We’re in this together. My prayers for peace surround each of you and our brothers and sisters around the world.

Pastor Chris