WEEKLY RECTOR’S MESSAGE – September 20th – Fr. Thomas.

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WEEKLY Message– September 20th

I am pleased to tell you that the Diocese has lifted the moratorium for in-church worship and that St. David’s will be re-opening its doors Sunday, October 4, 2020 for both the 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. masses!  Weekday masses will resume next week – on Tuesday mornings at 8:30 am and Wednesday evenings at 6:30 pm. Please note the guidelines below, which the Diocese is requiring to be followed for all in-person worship.
  • If you feel sick in any way or have any of the *CDC-listed symptoms for COVID-19, as listed below, please do not come to church.
  • All attendees must sign the register book – one family member can list all the members.
  • Those who live in the same household will be permitted to sit together in the same pew; but social distance from other attendees in alternate pews which will be set apart in advance.
  • Hand sanitizers will be available in the Narthex, and we ask that you use them, or your own, when you arrive at Church.
  • Face masks must always be worn while in church.
  • There will be no physical sign of peace exchanged, at this time – except amongst family members.
  • The line for the reception of Holy Communion will follow appropriate distancing, as marked on the floor.
  • The Eucharist will be given in one kind in the hand only. We ask that you kindly keep your mask on as you receive Communion. Then step to the side, lift your mask, and consume the wafer before putting your mask back on and returning to your seat.
  • Collection plates will be placed in the back of the church for your convenience – the plates will not be passed during Mass.
  • The Church building will be appropriately sanitized before and between Masses, as well as the restrooms.
*CDC Symptoms List:
  • Fever
  • Dry cough
  • Tiredness
Less common symptoms:
  • Aches and pains
  • Sore throat
  • Diarrhea
  • Conjunctivitis
  • Headache
  • Loss of taste or smell
  • A rash on skin, or discoloration of fingers or toes
Serious symptoms:
  • Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
  • Chest pain or pressure
RECTOR’S MESSAGE- Fr. Thomas.
Last week I spoke about being in a state of uncertainty about who we are during the pandemic.  Here’s a different account with regards to knowing who we are.  “I feel sick,” said the voice from the bedroom.  “You’re not sick, get up and get ready for school,” said the mother outside the door.  “I hate school and I’m not going, “was the reply.  “I’m always messing up and getting told off.  The teachers hate me and constantly complain about me.”  “I’m sorry, but you’re going to school, and that’s final!” said the mother.  “Mistakes are how we learn and develop so please try not to take criticism so personally.  I also can’t believe that nobody likes you; you have a lot of friends.  Besides, you’re the Principal.”
As Christians, we’ve all been given the responsibility and privilege of spreading the Good News of God’s love, in thought, word, and deed.  As we know all too well, love will find a way, but indifference will find an excuse.  In recent months we may not have been in a position to change our circumstances or other people, but “If you don’t like the way your life looks, try changing the way you look at life.”
NOTICES:
Forward Day by Day booklets for the next quarter are available in the Narthex book rack.
Video Viewing Options – there are three different ways to view our videos: 1) our church website; 2) our Facebook page; and 3) our YouTube channel.  See the links listed below.
Opportunities for Giving – there are several options that safely and efficiently expedite your generous donations: electronic bank transfers or automatic bank transfers via personal accounts or credit/debit cards; personal checks delivered by USPS; and our favorite through joining our giving family online through our website or at  www.myEoffering.com with our secure vendor Church Envelope Budget Company, who provides you with yearly offering envelopes. Please do NOT leave any envelopes with checks/cash unattended at church mailboxes.
Sandwiches for St. George’s Outreach Project – Please continue to prepare sandwiches for St. George’s and bring them to St. David’s parking lot each Wednesday morning from 8:30 to 9:30 am. Thank you for your continued support!
ECW Raffles –The drawing took place this past weekend on Saturday, Sept. 12th. The ECW greatly appreciates your donations. This year’s raffle was a wonderful success and we thank you for your continued support.
Please Pray – For the sick: Ashlyn, Donna, Kim, Jim, Joshua, Marie, Natalie, Rita.
For birthday celebrations: Mia Eubanks, Kimberly Ward, Irene Oknewski, Emma Gardner, Jack Erickson.
For our anniversary celebrations: Howard & Jem Barrett ~ 50 years!
For our expectant mother: Mayoli.
Additional Links and Information