"Re-Gathering" for Worship

                                                         First Congregational Church
                                                               Pastoral Letter - June 27th 2020
May the fullness of God’s peace be with you and bless you!

You are probably aware that First Congregational Church is moving ahead, cautiously, with reopening for worship on August 2 nd . Those who are able and comfortable doing so may gather, but we will continue with on-line worship for those who should not or are uncomfortable with being inside at this time.

Because the pandemic has not eased in a way that will allow things to return to “normal” the following procedures will be observed (but may not be limited to what is mentioned here).

• The door on the east side of the church will be our point of entry (on the side where the parking garage is) and will be unlocked at 9:45 a.m. If you are earlier, please wait at your car.  If others are loading or unloading next to you, please maintain appropriate distance or wait until they are done.
• We will have two greeters at the top of the steps, who will take your temperature, provide hand sanitizer, and record your name for tracing purposes.  
• Participants need to wear a mask or face shield. If you do not have one, there will be disposable masks available. Please keep in mind that, although, it is large, the sanctuary is enclosed and the air is recirculated. The purpose of the face covering is intended to protect others, who do not know where you have been.  
• Participants need to remember to maintain a six-foot distance from others, and (unfortunately) avoid that First CC habit of hugging.
• The congregation will not be singing, but we will have music. To paraphrase the Scriptures, you may “make a joyful humming to the Lord.”  We will not do responsive readings or unison prayers, but you are invited to whisper the prayers or speak them in your hearts.
• After worship, depending on the number of worshipers, we might be released by  pews and asked to return to your cars immediately.  If you choose to talk in the parking lot, please maintain the requested distance.
• Plates will be available to drop our offerings and tithes into in the hallway.  There will also be a bowl for prayer concerns.
• We are looking at how to accommodate those who cannot legitimately wear masks or face shields. (We do have several people who may fall into that description.)  Some of the alternatives may be providing an outdoor worship experience when the weather is good or being able to run a speaker outdoors. We may also set up an area in the rear where they may participate without being in close proximity.  This is being explored.

There may be other details that emerge as we feel our way through this process and your patience is appreciated. Details will undoubtedly change over the first month - either that of loosening up or tightening up depending on how needs change.  

Please remember that it is okay to stay home right now and continue with the online worship. What we need from everyone is prayerful thoughts lifted up as we move through this together. 

Please keep in prayer all those who are impacted by the ongoing pandemic - most of whom are unknown to us. For families who have been devastated by losing a loved one, to the many who will have ongoing health concerns because of the virus. Remember those who will be facing the challenges of interacting with the
public as part of their occupation (health care providers, educators, and yes -pastors, among others).

These are serious times we live in. It takes a serious, faithful, people to confront the issues that are continuing to arise. As people of faith, we also look to God who has never turned away from us and calls us to minister together through this age. Keep in mind the hymn...

O God, our help in ages past, our hope for years to come;
Our shelter in the stormy blast and our eternal home.

Beneath the shadow of thy throne, Thy saints have dwelt secure;
Sufficient is thine arm alone, And our defense is sure.

O God, our help in ages past, our hope for years to come;
Be thou our Guide while troubles last, and our eternal home!

Thanks be to God for the hope we have in Christ’s name.
~ Pastor Jim Elliott

 WORSHIP ONLINE
​(Past services can be found under the "Videos" tab above.)
Please also check our facebook page for current services-- www.facebook.com/630OhioStreetTerreHaute/

All Saints Sunday, Nov. 1, 2020

Worship, Oct. 25, 2020

On August 2nd, we plan to reinstate face-to-face worship... We will continue to offer live-stream as an option for those who cannot or should not join us in person.  There will be guidelines followed for the safety of all who attend-- more information will be coming soon!  Meanwhile, we pray for our nation, community and world...

Beginning May 17th, worship will be livestreamed on Facebook (no account needed)
10 a.m. by following this link: www.facebook.com/630OhioStreetTerreHaute/
We will hold a ZOOM "Coffee Fellowship" after worship at @ 11 am Sunday and Bible Study via ZOOM on Wednesdays at 5:30 p.m.
​Contact Pastor Kathi for an invitation link.  pastorkathielliott@gmail.com

Sunday worship: 10:00 A.M. - Traditional service (child care provided)
First Congregational Church                    630 Ohio                    Terre Haute, Indiana 47807                    812.232.8880
info@firstchurchth.org

First Congregational Church of Terre Haute is part of the National Association of Congregational Christian Churches.