Be Wise in times of Trouble

“Whoever walks with the wise

becomes wise,
    but the companion of fools

suffers harm.”

  - Proverbs 13:20

Dear wise faithful:

      We can argue the politics. We can debate the scientific studies. We can contend for one side or the other. In fact, just yesterday, there have been reports done on both sides of the new CDC guidelines that restate what activities are low to high risk for those who are fully vaccinated and those who are unvaccinated. But the bottom line, no matter where you stand, we all can agree that we want to make sure we are not endangering ourselves or any of our neighbors.  

       The Writer of Proverbs was correct in saying that we should seek the advice of the wise so that we may be wise and not blunder into the foolish and cause others to suffer harm. That is why as a congregation we have taken the time to slowly return to worship activities. We were blessed by Michael Lobaugh, who stepped up to offer online videos of our worship for so long this past year, so that people could and still worship safely at home. As we returned to in-building worship, we were blessed with a large sanctuary that allows us to sit in separate pews at regular safe spacing intervals. Members have faithfully followed the guidelines to wear masks while in the building and worshipping. We have wisely done everything to cause no harm.

     As we continue to expand worship to include more liturgy and member involvement we are purposefully taking small steps. More pre-recorded liturgy will be included at Sunday worship this summer. As only music can do, one verse of hymns will be offered so that members can quietly hum to themselves feeling the emotions of the musical word. By Fall, we look forward to taking the next step and perhaps singing a verse or two quietly in worship and returning to communion distribution at the altar steps. 

     We are encouraging everyone to continue being wise and safe. Get vaccinated to protect yourself and others. Feel confident that you can safely return to worship in St. Mark, following the established guidelines so that we do everything to keep each other from harm. Only by being together safely and wisely are we able to continue to serve and worship as St. Mark of Hanover.

                                                                                  In the peace and grace of God,                                                                                                                                Pastor Kirk Griffin