January 6, 2021
Dear friends,
2020 was a long and challenging year – and now that we are a few days into 2021, many of us are watching the news with interest to see what the impact of the holidays may be upon our local COVID positivity rate. Our hearts are filled with sadness as we watch the national reports about hospitals filled to capacity and hear the term “tough decisions” being used regarding patient care. Please continue to keep our medical personnel in your prayers as well as the ill and recovering, those grieving, and those struggling with the impact of COVID-19 upon their life!
Locally our positivity rate has remained below the 15% positivity rate criteria, which brings a great deal of hope regarding the possibility of a return to In-Person Worship Opportunities. At this time, we are tentatively making plans to return to a hybrid model of both in-person and digital worship as long as there is not a significant increase in the positivity rate in Black Hawk County in the coming days.
Jan 10 – digital only worship at 9am
Jan 17 – digital only worship at 9am (Welcome back to Pastor Liz Woodward who will be our guest preacher in Pastor Brian’s absence!)
Jan 24 (& ongoing) –Interim Worship Schedule (*using Hybrid of In-Person/Digital options)
9:00-9:45 Traditional Worship Service in
Sanctuary
9:15-9:45 Sunday School in Upper
Level Classrooms
10:00-10:45 Contemporary Worship
Service in Faith & Life Center
11:00-12:15 7/8 and 9th gr
Confirmation in F&LC and Youth Room
*At this time, we plan to stream one service each
week on Facebook & record it for sharing via our website and CFU. It is likely that we will alternate services
but since this involves moving and re-setting up the equipment, the
Stream Team continues to discuss how to best provide this service to those
wishing to worship from home.
Similar to our services this summer and fall, both in-person worship services will be abbreviated in length and not include communal singing but will be full of scripture and prayers, and include the opportunity for communion. Tables will be set up in the atrium to pick up your communion cup and drop off your offering. Those attending worship in-person will be asked to
- RSVP for the service attending (through the online link or by calling the church office) as we continue to limit attendance numbers to maintain socially distancing protocols.
- Wear a mask if above preschool age.
- Socially distance from non-family members.
- Continue worshipping from home when in a high-risk group for infection or experiencing symptoms.
Thank you for your flexibility in the midst of ever-changing circumstances, your continued prayers and faithful giving, and for your constant support and encouragement to one another as we continue “joyfully taking God’s love into the world.”
St. John Church Leadership & Staff