Dear people gathered as Risen Lord Lutheran Church,
We are making plans to worship together in person on Sunday, September 13! The Leadership Team is watching several metrics so that we can gather with less risk. For more information about those metrics and guidelines that were put in place according to public health guidance issued by Federal and State authorities and recommendations from the ELCA and Indiana-Kentucky Synod, you can read the full plan. A final decision to have worship will be made by the Wednesday prior to each Sunday, though cancellation may have to happen on a shorter notice if cases in our county quickly increase.
When we gather together for worship, there are changes that have been made in order to reduce the risk for all people. Here are some things to help you when you come.
As you come into the parking lot (using the Whiteland Rd entrance), there will be someone to help direct you and distribute bulletins.
We will worship behind the church. You can choose to stay in your car (and listen on an FM radio) or bring a chair and sit in the parking lot. If you plan to stay in your car, please try to arrive early so you can back into a spot along the west side of the parking lot (closest to Saddle Club Rd) before others are seated. If you would like to bring a chair, there will be designated places for you to place it.
We ask all worshippers to wear a mask. If you cannot wear a mask, please continue to worship at home. We also ask everyone to maintain at least six feet of physical distance between those who are not part of your household. That means we will not be sharing hugs or handshakes for the safety of all.
During worship, we will not be singing or speaking in unison. There will be places that instrumental music is offered for reflection. Some prayers will be prayed by the pastor while those assembled pray in their hearts. Others will be offered silently.Â
As we share the peace with each other, we will use nonverbal communication from our seats. Some ideas include a gentle nod or slight bow, a simple wave or crossing your arms over your chest as a symbol of embrace. Feel free to consider your own way you would like to convey peace to those around you!
We will celebrate the Eucharist. There will be arrows directing the flow to come forward and receive the bread. We ask that participants return to their seats before removing their masks to consume.
While some of these changes may feel unnatural or uncomfortable, we hope to create an environment for worship where all who gather can feel safe and included.Â
If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Lecia or the Leadership Team. If you would like to help with set up or clean on Sunday, please contact Melissa Day (text 317-966-1215 or email daysindy@sbcglobal.net).
In the abiding hope of the Risen Lord,
Pastor Lecia
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