Dear Bethel Family,
In light of the newest Covid restrictions announced this week, the natural question is: ‘Are we still able to meet physically?’. The short answer is ‘Yes!’ – but with some added protocols. In order to comply with the new capacity restriction of 15%, we will only be able to have 30 people in the main auditorium, plus 15 in the fellowship hall, and 5 in the foyer – for a total of 50 people, including children. While we considered the option of going completely online, the elders think it important that we maintain as much ‘normalcy’ as possible, within the restrictions imposed by the governing authority. Thus we plan to continue meeting physically (Lord’s Supper, Family Bible Hour, & Sunday School) up to the numbers noted above. This means we will have to go to a RSVP system, i.e. if you would like to attend physically on Sunday mornings, you will have to RSVP (to Frank) by Saturday evening to reserve a spot. We hope to have an audio feed into the fellowship hall in place by Sunday, and eventually a video feed if technically & logistically feasible. Of course, the option of joining us on Zoom will still be available. Obviously this plan has come together in very short order, and we may well have to make changes as we see how it works out. Please be praying for us (and each other) as we work to navigate our way through this! A related question is ‘What about Christmas Eve?’. We will see how our Sunday plans work out, and then decide if the Christmas hymn sing is still viable. For the moment, however, it is still a go. Finally, if you are around the chapel after dark, you will notice that the parking lot lighting has been totally updated. This was really appreciated on Monday evening during the community food pantry, especially by the women who were waiting on the deck for rides, and also by the volunteers who are parked in the rear. A big thanks to the Deacons for this great improvement to both our safety and security. In His service, Frank On behalf of the Elders Jesus spoke to them, saying, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” John 8:12 |