News from Pastor Jenn
Dear Friends in Christ,
For weeks now, I have been doing my best to monitor the spread of COVID-19 and to stay up to date on guidelines from our county health officials. This morning Santa Clara County issued new guidelines for protecting personal wellbeing and slowing community transmissions. In part, they suggested that faith communities that “serve high-risk communities, should cancel gatherings of more than 10 people.” Because of these guidelines, we will not be holding in person worship services this Sunday, March 15. We will be streaming at 11 AM instead. For those who do not have access to social media, we will also be posting the service for viewing later.
This was not an easy decision to make, as I am keenly aware of how important gathering in sacred community can be, particularly in times of uncertainty and fear. I do not want to deepen our fears by initiating unnecessary restrictions. However, I think it is incumbent upon all of us to exercise personal responsibility and do all we can to protect those most vulnerable. Our concern is much more than our own personal health. It is also a deep concern for those who are elderly, those who are already ill, and the many health care workers who are striving each day to keep us safe and well. We will never know the lives we may have helped by engaging in these practices, but if we have helped to save even one person from becoming ill, it is worth it.
In the meantime, it is important to remember, “we are the church,” so we can’t be canceled! We have delayed gathering in person for a time, but we are still Christ’s body everywhere we go. Call someone you know and check on their well-being or volunteer to get groceries for someone whose health or age might make them more vulnerable. Continue to pray for God’s wisdom and grace to guide us through these uncharted waters.
Pastor Jenn