Last week, governor Inslee made the announcement that the whole state would be moving into a new phase, where indoor gatherings are increased to 50% and some other restrictions are loosened. While we all have thoughts about where things should be and how they should be done, I think we can all agree that a step forward is good. There is a growing hope, as our cases and deaths have dropped significantly over the last month.
While some want to make it clear that we are not out-of-the-woods yet; I think that it is important for us to focus on the positive right now. God, in His common grace, has provided a vaccine that is reducing the spread, the diligence of people to wear masks and follow regulations has kept cases and deaths in our state to a minimum, and warm weather is on its way (which makes outdoor events possible). While we are not done with COVID yet, there are very real reasons to be thankful and to look forward with optimism.
Having this paired with Spring seems appropriate, as this is the time of year when all the seeds and flowers that laid dormant for months come back into bloom. It also seems right to have this paired with Easter, the reminder of Christ coming out of the tomb to bring life and hope where there had been death. While the last year has not quite been death, it has been very difficult to feel ‘full of life’ with all of the changes and restrictions hanging over us. Lowering hospitalization rates and increased occupancy are steps forward worthy of celebration.
One year ago, our Easter service was online only. This year:
1. we will be gathering for two services at 9a and 11a!
2. we will be having baptisms!
3. we will be serving cinnamon rolls between services!
4. we will be adding songs back to the beginning of service!
5. we will have additional kid’s classes!
We are excited to be adding some of our regular rhythms back in, but to do so, we must continue to be vigilant in wearing masks when inside the church (we will have some clarifying rules for cinnamon roll eating in a future communication). We have been graciously protected and have not had to deal with any COVID cases in connection with our church (some individuals in our church have had it, but not when there was any chance of spread). Let’s continue to do our part so that we can all move forward. I can’t wait for the day when moisture droplets, social distancing, and masks are not things we need to think or talk about anymore.