From the Pastor 4/16/20

April 16, 2020
 
Sandy Mount UMC family, 
 
I am so grateful for the many ways in which we are keeping each other safe while staying connected. Many of us have received a crash course in Zoom meetings, conference calls, and web announcing while reigniting our appreciation for phone calls, video chats, and text messaging. Thank you for looking out for each other!
 
Many of you continue to support the church with your financial gifts and offerings of which we are also most grateful. We are doing all we can to reduce our costs and we appreciate your support as we weather this sea of uncertainty. And you are making it possible for us to offer free weekly dinners at no cost to the public without having to use church funds. The needs in our community are great, and every dollar we receive allows all of us to continue to be the church in every way.
 
I pray you are finding ways to stay healthy and engaged during this time of social distancing. I’ve discovered a Yoga app that offers a variety of free Yoga routines. The www.upperroom.org website offers daily devotions as well as BibleGateway.com and many others. Coursera is offering free courses and certifications through the end of May. Many of us are reconnecting with our hobbies – I’m working on a second quilt which has literally been years in the making! Perhaps we have gained a new appreciation for the great outdoors. Parents are probably renewing their appreciation for teachers!
 
I cannot accurately predict the future, but I believe it may be a bit longer than originally anticipated before we can reconvene for worship services. And even when we do, what will that look like? What changes can we embrace to keep everyone safe but also reconnect in face-to-face time together? One thing I do know – we will honor God Almighty in every way we can through worship, prayer, giving, fellowship, fasting, communion, holy conferencing, praise. I believe our resolve is strong as we continue to look to the source of our strength. Philippians 4:13 – “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” May this be our mantra now and always.
 
Peace be with you.
Your servant in Christ,
Pastor Kathy