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LETTER TO CONGREGATION
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2022 Dear Friends, Thank you for your faithfulness and patience in caring for one another through this last outbreak of Covid/Omicron. Through the past couple of months we have been keeping more stringent precautions to avoid exposure during our Sunday services. The lifting of mandates statewide and the plummeting rates of infections, now make it possible to return once again to a more "normal" time of worship and fellowship together. Beginning this Sunday we will began the transition with the following actions: -Masks We will no longer require masks during the service. KN95 Masks will remain available on the Greeting Table for anyone who may wish to take extra precautions. -The Peace The "Wave of Peace" will continue for the time being, instead of shaking hands in the aisleway. Please give consideration for the members of our church who desire to keep more social distance while attending. -Communion Holy Communion will once again be offered in both kinds - host and chalice. Depending upon your own level of comfort with the changes, you may choose the option you think best: You may choose: - Host Only - simply pass by the chalice - Intinction - dip the edge of the host into the wine - Sip - consume host and take a small sip from the chalice -Stay Home when Sick The one "Mandate" that must remain is staying home when sick. Covid will be around for the foreseeable future, as well as other viruses and flues. Please stay home when: -You are feeling sick -Have symptoms of Covid or something else -You know you have been directly exposed to Covid and may be contagious I am thankful to God for His grace and guidance in bringing us through the challenges of these past months. Let us move forward now into the new season ahead with fresh hope and renewed vigor. Amen! God Bless You, Fr. Jack LETTER TO CONGREGATION
FRIDAY, JANUARY 28, 2022 Dear Friends, Well it certainly has been an interesting time of living through Covid plagues while continuing to be faithful with life both at home and at church! Throughout the fall we were building momentum with Sunday worship and our essential ministries, but the Omicron wave kinda took the wind out of our sails. Many in our congregation have been sick along with extended family members. Thankfully most have not been seriously ill, and are recovering their health, although some more slowly than others. I have been continuing in prayer for God's healing Light to permeate our minds, hearts, and physical bodies. Trusting in His grace to bring us all through and restore us to health. Covid Protocols -This major spike in Covid cases remains ongoing, so we will continue with our extra precautions when we gather for worship on Sundays, wearing masks, social distance at the Peace, and host only for communion. With that said, I am hopeful that once this tidal wave of Omicron washes over, that we can again begin to ease restrictions and start returning to a more "normal" time of worship and fellowship together. Praying for God's Presence and Light to Be Upon You, Fr. Jack LETTER TO CONGREGATION
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2021 Greetings to All, I received notification from Bishop Eric this week stating that Covid Restrictions are being reinstated for all congregations in our Diocese. In following the governor's mask mandate for all public gatherings, it is the Bishop's expectation that we will comply with the wearing of masks during Sunday Services as well as returning to safety protocols for communion. Therefore, beginning tomorrow Dec 19th here at Ascension the following Covid protocols be in effect: -Masks are required while on campus Readers and preachers are permitted to remove masks for ministry up front -Communion will be served in "host only" - no chalice or intincting Please remember that the fullness of God's grace is sacramentally present in the bread and the wine - to receive either one is receive His grace completely -Wave of Peace instead of Shaking Hands Let us respect the boundaries of social distancing by remaining in place and waving the Peace to each other -No Coffee Hour after the Service It simply is not practical to gather for coffee and snacks in the Fellowship Hall with everyone wearing masks. Hopefully these restrictions will not continue for an extended length of time, but until we are informed otherwise from the Bishop we will continue to comply. My prayer continues to be for God to keep all safe from the plague, and to keep us in love and unity with one another. God Bless You, Fr. Jack ps Here is the directive from the Bishop:
LETTER TO CONGREGATION
SATURDAY, AUGUST 7, 2021 Greetings to All, I am writing to keep you informed about protocols at church during the ongoing pandemic. Over the past couple of months we have enjoyed a more "normal" time of worship on Sundays due to the easing of previous Covid safety restrictions. We are able to make this change due to the fact a majority of our congregation is fully vaccinated and cases have remained relatively low in Kern County. Even with the advent of the Delta variant, I continue to believe we have a relatively safe environment to gather for worship. For these reasons I will do not plan on reinstating Covid restrictions at this time. Except we will continue our requirement to remain home in case of exposure: Reminder Please Stay Home when Sick or Symptomatic, or When you know to have been Directly Exposed or If you have spent time in a High Risk Situation. For any who want to enhance your own personal precautions for additional peace of mind. The following options continue to remain available when you come to church: Wearing a Mask KN 95 masks are available for the congregation on the welcome table. These are certified PPE masks that provide protection from spreading and receiving the virus. You may also wear your own personal masks. Hand Sanitizer Available at the entrance and on the Altar for all serving Social Distancing The spacious sanctuary allows for ample room to provide social distance for you and your family. Following the service you may decide to meet outside for fellowship - weather permitting. At the Peace You may chose to offer a wave of peace from your pew location. or, If comfortable with shaking hands you may do so in the center aisle. Please remember to honor those who wish to maintain social distance, by not pursuing them where they are sitting! Communion Will continue to be offered in both kinds - host and chalice. Depending upon your own level of comfort, choose the option you think best: You may choose: - Host Only - simply pass by the chalice - Intinction - dip the edge of the host into the wine - Sip - consume host and take a small sip from the chalice Livestream If you chose to remain at home Livestream is a viable option for the main service and for Children's Church. Please take personal responsibility to chose the precautions above as you may deem necessary, and let us continue to give grace and understanding to one another.. These are complicated times that we are living through. I am blessed to be sharing the journey with all of you. In sending to you this latest update, I am taking a measured approach to the circumstances that surround us, and pray that God will continue to guide and protect us on the way. God Bless You, Fr. Jack LETTER TO CONGREGATION
FRIDAY, JUNE 25, 2021 Greetings to All, Throughout the past year we have prayed for God's protection and taken measures to protect one another from the plague of Covid 19. The goal was to come through to the other side of this pandemic with everyone healthy and intact. By the grace of God we have accomplished this goal. I commend you for your faithfulness, patience, sacrifice and love for each other, as we made the journey through this difficult season. On Ascension Sunday we began the transition out of Covid time by lifting the requirement for the wearing of masks. Now the time has come to complete the transition back to our "normal life" as the congregation of Ascension Anglican Church. Starting this Sunday, we are bringing to a conclusion our remaining Covid Restrictions and Protocols. We are able to make this step of restoration due to the fact that a super majority of our congregation is fully vaccinated and cases are down to minimum in Kern County. While Covid does continue to exist, the risk factor has been reduced dramatically. We will no longer require: -Mask Wearing -Social Distancing -Communion Restrictions -Sanitizing of Sanctuary Communion will once again be offered in both kinds - host and chalice. Depending upon your own level of comfort with the changes, you may choose the option you think best: You may choose: - Host Only - simply pass by the chalice - Intinction - dip the edge of the host into the wine - Sip - consume host and take a small sip from the chalice Remember the fullness of God's grace resides in both the bread and the wine - the body and the blood - to receive one or the other is to receive the fullness of that grace. With the conclusion of our formal restrictions, let us recognize that some may wish to proceed more cautiously and continue to be gracious to one another. One final note of importance; The risk of Covid is greatly reduced, but it is still a possibility and it does remain highly contagious. If you are feeling sick, or think you may have been exposed to Covid: Please stay home and do not take the chance of exposing others. I am thankful to God for His grace and guidance in bringing us through the challenges of this past year. I am thankful for all of your diligence and faith in making the journey together. Let us move forward now into the new season ahead with fresh hope and renewed vigor, drawing near to God as He draws near to us. God Bless You, Fr. Jack LETTER TO CONGREGATION
FRIDAY, MAY 21, 2021 Greetings to All, We are making a transition from the restrictions which we have been living with for the past year due to the Covid pandemic. Last week for Ascension Sunday we lifted the requirement for everyone to wear masks at all times during our worship services. We were able to make this change due to the fact that almost everyone in the congregation has been fully vaccinated. Thus greatly reducing the risk of transmission and illness from this plague. In order to move forward with the lifting of the mask requirement, we are keeping certain other precautions in place for the time being. This will further enhance our safety during this transition period. Extending some practices will help protect those who may remain vulnerable to getting sick, especially our children who are not yet eligible for the vaccines. The following is an update on our Covid protocols at this time: No Masks for Adults -As stated nearly all of our adult congregation is fully vaccinated. That means both shots of vaccines followed by a two week period boosting to full immunity. This is the gamechanger for the need to wear masks, as fully vaccinated people neither contract nor transmit Covid with very few exceptions. Masks no longer required for adults - inside or outside Masks Required for Children -While nearly all our adults have moved into the safety zone, the same cannot be said for our children. At present none of the kids under the age of 12 is able to be vaccinated. That means that they continue to be at risk of becoming sick from Covid, especially when they are in close proximity with one another. That risk decreases when they are outside or in the main sanctuary with their parents. Therefore, we will continue to require the kids to wear masks when they are together in the Sunday School classroom, along with the staff. After class time when they return outside or to the sanctuary, they will be free to take their masks off or leave them on in accordance with the parents discretion. In this way we provide a reasonable level of protection for all our children, without being excessive. Social Distancing Continues -Another way in which we maintain an extra level of protection for each other and visitors is to continue our social distancing practices: 1) Keep good separation of family units by spreading out in the sanctuary and leaving empty pews between our seating 2) Maintain six feet distance in line for communion 3) Return to your seat with the host for a time of reflection before consuming 4) Fellowship time outside in the courtyard Communion Host Only -It is premature to return to sharing the common cup during communion - either by intinction or by sipping. Communion will continue as host only, remembering as Anglicans we hold that "the fullness of God's Grace is found in both elements". The fullness of grace is in the host, and fullness of grace is in the wine. When you receive either one we receive this fullness from God. Remain Home if Sick -The risk of Covid is greatly reduced, but it is not gone altogether. It remains highly contagious and dangerous should we happen to contract it. Please don't take a chance at putting others at risk if you are sick.Whether it is Covid or something else please stay home if you are not feeling well. I want to commend you for your love for one another and sacrifice of personal comforts to keep everyone safe throughout this last year. We are all longing to be completely free from any further fears and restrictions. It is my hope that you will join me in being patient and careful for a bit longer until we make it through the transition to the new season ahead. I trust that this update will help clarify the parameters of our common life at this time. Please feel free to call or contact me with any questions or concerns. God Bless You, Fr. Jack LETTER TO CONGREGATION
FRIDAY, MAY 14, 2021 Greetings to All, I am writing to give everyone an Important Update regarding Covid restrictions when we gather for worship. Yesterday the CDC released new guidelines on mask requirements, especially for those who have been fully vaccinated. In effect they stated that it is no longer necessary for them to wear masks, either indoors or outdoors. Once completely vaccinated the risk of getting sick with Covid is miniscule, as is the risk of transmission to others who may not yet be vaccinated. When applied to our gatherings at Ascension, it becomes evident that we no longer need to wear masks at church! Almost everyone in the congregation has been fully vaccinated at this time, and thus the risk of Covid is extremely low. I would continue to encourage those who have not yet received the vaccine to consider doing so, but as of this Sunday - Masks will no longer be required for worship services, either indoors or outdoors. Additional Considerations: Social distancing -Please continue to maintain some social distancing inside the sanctuary for singing and taking communion, as this extends a little extra precaution at this time. We have plenty of room in the big sanctuary to spread out and provide some assurance for visitors or those who may be hesitating to return. Masks remain available -Some of you may want to keep wearing masks in order to feel absolutely safe from Covid when you come to church. You are welcome to do so. We will continue to have masks available at the entrance table for any who want them. Coffee Hour -For the time being we will have times of fellowship/coffee hour outside in the courtyard. Again, this is a way to extend a measure of extra precaution while we move through the transition of meeting without masks. Outside gatherings remain especially impervious to the spread of Covid. Ascension Sunday -This Sunday we celebrate the Ascension of Jesus into heaven. The Gospel event for which we are named: Ascension Anglican Church. Please take this opportunity to join with me in a return to worship at church - this week and every week going forward. We have persevered through the challenges of the last year together, now let us restore our discipline and habit of being together to worship and fellowship every Sunday on the Lord's Day. See you in church! Blessings, Fr. Jack LETTER TO CONGREGATION
FRIDAY, MARCH 5, 2021 Regathering for Worship Greetings to All, We are regathering for Worship once again this Sunday March 7th at 10am. The service will be in the Main Sanctuary at 7th Day Adventist, where we were meeting previously. I know that we are all anticipating the chance to be together again in person and receiving communion. With that said, we must continue to remain vigilant against any spread of the Covid plague. The following safety protocols will remain in place for our time together: -Please stay home if feeling unwell, or think you may have been exposed -Masks are required throughout our time in the service and on campus -Social distancing in seating arrangements and during communion -Washing and sanitizing hands and common surfaces By taking these precautions, we demonstrate our love for one another by keeping each other safe. Gratefully, many are being vaccinated and protected from serious sickness, but even so it remains possible to become infected and spread the disease to others. The plague continues to infect people at times with dire consequences. In this past week I have learned of several who are close to our church community that have recently become seriously sick from Covid. In two cases they are continuing to be very ill over a month after initial infection. My friends, I do not want any of you to have this affliction! It has been one year exactly since we left the comfort of our Chapel and began the journey through the wilderness of this plague. A kind of one year extended season of Lent. Let us continue to pray that God will bring us through whole and healthy to a glorious Easter Restoration in the days ahead. The Sunday services will continue to be Live Streamed on Facebook, for any who may not be comfortable with returning just yet. Please contact me with any questions or concerns. God Bless You, Fr. Jack LETTER TO CONGREGATION
OCTOBER 16, 2020 Greetings to everyone! It's time for a weekend update. Here are some thoughts and important information to keep in mind, as we continue to adapt to ever changing circumstances: Worship in Main Sanctuary -This Sunday we are moving our worship back inside into the main sanctuary at 7th Day Adventist. Earlier in the week Kern county cleared the restriction level to once again allow for church services inside with proper protocols. We will gather at the usual time at 10am, with masks and social distancing. One advantage of the big church is we can easily spread out and still be together comfortably. The service will follow the pattern from the "Blue Cathedral" with Carolyn playing hymns on the grand piano, and Fr. Randy and Sue leading us in joyful singing. Live Stream Improvements in Progress -For all joining us for the service via Livestream on Facebook - Thank You For Your Patience! We have faced various challenges, difficulties, and foibles, but continue to persevere in getting things worked out. This week our plan is to start streaming about 5-10 minutes early, so we can troubleshot any problems at the start. Switching into another new different venue may also produce some new issues with sound n such. Please continue to give me your feedback, and prayers are always appreciated! Thank You for Wearing Masks! -Many thanks to everyone for wearing masks when we gather for worship. Your willingness to do so is a clear demonstration of your love for one another, and a witness of God's grace in our midst. Jesus said, "They will know you are my disciples when you have love for one another." This Covid plague is tenacious and random. It can move quickly and strike with very serious effects. The precautions we are taking could make all the difference, especially for any vulnerable members of our church family. I continue to pray for safety for all. Blessings to all, Fr. Jack LETTER TO CONGREGATION
OCTOBER 2, 2020 Hello to All, Well we are certainly adjusting our way through the fall as we worship in the "Blue Cathedral" and engage in an adventure called "Livestream." Most importantly we are continuing in the journey together as followers of Jesus here at Ascension. I think we are in fact ascending up the holy mountain with the Lord walking beside us step by step. Even though it may feel somewhat different due to the change of landscape in the world that surrounds us. I want to encourage you in your faith and bless you for your faithfulness to God and to one another. The Kingdom of God remains present in our midst. Amen! Here are a couple of updates for you regarding church life: Live Streaming the Service -Returning to on campus worship also set in motion the need to transition from a prerecorded service posted on Facebook to a Live Streamed Service on Sunday morning. The benefit of having both campus and Facebook formats is that we can all be together at the same time sharing in liturgy, word, and sacrament whether physically present or connecting online. The challenge has been to make the transition with the technology, so that it actually works. We're working through the online difficulties with the sound and video feed, and will hopefully soon have all resolved. Your patience, prayers and feedback are much appreciated! Reminders For all joining us on Facebook live at 10am on Sundays remember to look for the Saturday ebulletin which has links to liturgy, scriptures, songs, ect. Zoom coffee hour will also be available immediately following the service hosted by Merleen Johnson. Drive up communion will be available from 11:15 to 11:45am with Dc. Skip at the top entrance to the campus. You may coordinate with him directly through text on his cell phone Missionaries We continue to pray for our missionaries every week in the prayers of the people. You may have noticed recently the list has changed a bit. Christina Raines has returned from the mission field and is now enrolling for education in becoming a physicians assistant, so no longer on our list. In place I've included another missionary couple that came by to visit in the spring, Russ and Heidi Smith. They are long term missionaries in Chile. Along with The Bernardi's, The Jun's, and Swteve Veselski it is wonderful to support the expansion of God's kingdom worldwide. Covid Update -Thanks to all for your faithfulness in loving one another, and protecting each other, when we gather by wearing masks, social distancing, hand sanitizing, ect. Using these precautions and worshiping outside dramatically lowers the risk of spreading the virus among the congregation. I continue to pray that we will all come through to the other side of this plague without illness. This Sunday promises to be another warm morning, so remember to dress cool and comfortable. Looking ahead it appears that next week temperatures will be dropping and our outside venue will be much more refreshing. When public health guidelines allow, we will transition back into the main sanctuary and perhaps enjoy Carolyn playing on the organ once again. That's about all for now. I'll keep you posted. Blessings, Fr. Jack LETTER TO CONGREGATION
AUGUST 30, 2020 Back to Church Sunday Greetings to all, I want to invite you to "Back to Church Sunday on Sept 13th at 10am. As the temperatures begin to cool, we are planning for a return to outside worship services. This is our traditional time for us to refocus on God as we head into the fall, and it's appropriate for us to gather together once again in a manner that is safe. Services will continue every Sunday going forward, allowing Covid restrictions permit us to do so. The services will be outside in the Chapel courtyard, with the proper precautions of masks and social distancing. Readers and preachers in front will not be required to wear masks, as we will be both outside and at a safe distance from the congregation. By all accounts, outside gatherings significantly reduce the possibility of the virus spreading. Our plan is to live stream the service for online worship participation for any of you who may need to continue to be extra cautious during this ongoing pandemic. In addition, we are exploring options for a time for drive up communion, as done previously. Additional Considerations: -Weather: Sept may continue fairly hot as we know. Please check temperatures and dress appropriately. Currently in mid 80s during service time -Masks: Disposable blue surgical masks will be available for all to use. These may be somewhat easier to breath through during worship. Of course you are welcome to use your own masks as well. -Seating: Our white folding chairs will be set up in the courtyard, but you may want to bring your own lawn chairs if more comfortable. -Shorter Service: To increase safety and comfort the service will be about an hour and fifteen minutes, with three hymns/songs, shorter sharing at the peace, brief announcements, ect. We are all ready to be together once again after months of isolation. As we regather, let's continue to remain vigilant in caring for one another to prevent any potential spread of Covid in our midst. I look forward to seeing you soon, and joining in worship on campus once again. God Bless You, Fr. Jack LETTER TO CONGREGATION
SUNDAY, AUGUST 16, 2020 Communion Service Postponed Hi Everyone, Fr. Randy and I were hoping for communion service outside on campus next week, but due to the intense hot weather it is not possible. Communion Service is Postponed for the time being. We are unable to gather inside due to the Covid 19 restrictions, so that means that we would be required to craft an outside service. Extreme hot temperatures remain the forecast for at least a week to ten day with highs at 105+ every day - even by 8am almost 90. When public health restrictions or weather conditions relent, we will plan to gather together for communion once again. I will keep you posted. God Bless You, Fr. Jack LETTER TO CONGREGATION
THURSDAY JUNE 25, 2020 Reopening Plan Dear Friends, We are living in extraordinary times to say the least. The ongoing and ever-present danger of infection from Covid-19 has called us into new modes of living, both in our personal lives and as a church. I want to take a moment to reflect with you in preparation for gathering once again. I am thankful for the online formats that have allowed us to continue in worship and in fellowship together during these past months. The central drawback has been forgoing the sacrament of communion on a regular basis. Gathering for worship presents special challenges and risks that need to be mitigated for the welfare of all. We are allowed to meet once again, provided that we maintain the proper guidelines set down by the governor, public health, and the bishop. Some of these guidelines may seem stifling, such as the requirement to wear masks during our time together. Others are merely common sense or adjustments in practices. The important thing to remember is that we are taking these precautions to protect one another from harm. These actions are in effective demonstration of “loving your neighbor as yourself.” I am asking you to join with me in living out our love for one another through wearing masks, keeping social distance, and generally being extra cautious. The precautions we engage in may very well save the members of our church family from great suffering and sickness, or even death. The virus is indiscriminate. Those among us who are older or more fragile are at greater risk. But even our younger members and children could also become severely afflicted by this plague. In coming together as a church body, we must do all that we can to assure for the safety of everyone who is present. We have developed a Reopening Plan that addresses these concerns and adheres to the requirements set down by the Bishop. We are planning to gather once again for communion for the first time on July 12th. Instead of meeting in the chapel, we will meet in the main sanctuary at 7th Day Adventist This will allow us to easily spread out for social distancing, while being together for a time of worship. A drive-up option will be available for anyone for whom it is simply too risky to come into the sanctuary. On July 12th we will start at home with the Online Service for the first half of the liturgy ending with the Peace by 11am. Then all are invited to drive to the church to complete with the Holy Eucharist. We will begin a time of communion – the liturgy of the mass – at 11:30am. This will give everyone approximately 30 min to come over to the church. DRIVE-UP OPTION: 12:00 to 12:30pm, you can receive communion while in your car at the top entrance, 2600 Kenwood Road. Please plan accordingly! Be ready to leave at the end of the service on Facebook or slip out a little before the end if you need extra travel time. Should you arrive after we have begun, simply slip into some open spaces and join in. In this manner we have the benefits of being together in church and sharing in the sacrament of the body of Christ while keeping the time frame as short as possible. The communion time should last about half an hour. Gathering for a shorter time increases our safety and decreases the amount of discomfort we may experience, especially the length of time wearing a mask. I commend you for your perseverance and faithfulness to the Lord during this season. Even in the midst of all this, God continues to work in marvelous ways. He is not thwarted by pandemics, social unrest, storms, or earthquakes. His grace is sufficient for us in the present moment. Let us continue to find Him together in all the ways in which we gather in this season. I have attached our official plan for reopening. In it are the safety precautions we will keep in place going forward. Please read through carefully and call or email me with any questions or concerns. I am continuing in prayer for God’s grace, protection, and provision for each of you and for our church family. God Bless, Fr. Jack |
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LETTER TO CONGREGATION
SATURDAY, MAY 30, 2020
Reopening the Church
I want to take of moment to reflect with you on the question of regathering for worship. Earlier this week headlines on the front page of the paper today declared, "County clears houses of worship to reopen." In consideration with the Vestry, I think we all agree we should not be in a rush to do so. The wise approach is to go slow, and take enough time to develop protocols that will provide safety for our congregation. From my position the earliest date for reopening would be July 5th. In discussion with Fr. Randy we both concur on this as a tentative date for us to consider.
Going slow and looking to a possible reopening in July allows us to prepare in the following ways:
-Complete reopening protocols to minimize risk of exposure
-Allow 7th Day Adventist to do groundwork of preparation in sanctuary
-Gain further input from the congregation on needs and concerns
-Consider carefully the question of our children's ministry
-Develop further technology for continued online worship alongside of gathering
-Watch what happens with the other churches that relaunch immediately
-Pray
We are following the directives of our Bishop and the guidelines he has set forth for congregations to gather together once again. His requirements include:
-Everyone wear masks at all times - including preaching, readings, and liturgy
-Seating at proper social distancing
-No congregational singing - period!
-Strict communion safety protocols
-Cleaning of sanctuary before and after
-No coffee hour social time following the service
Let us continue to pray for guidance and discernment going forward. We are actively working on a detailed plan for reopening, and I will send out to all of you once it is completed. Covid 19 remains a threat. It is present in Bakersfield and many members of our congregation are vulnerable. While risk of exposure may be low at the moment, this could change.
I hope you will all find this approach both wise and agreeable. Please let me know you thoughts. I value your feedback on all these matters. Send me an email or feel free to call me anytime.
God Bless You,
Fr. Jack
SATURDAY, MAY 30, 2020
Reopening the Church
I want to take of moment to reflect with you on the question of regathering for worship. Earlier this week headlines on the front page of the paper today declared, "County clears houses of worship to reopen." In consideration with the Vestry, I think we all agree we should not be in a rush to do so. The wise approach is to go slow, and take enough time to develop protocols that will provide safety for our congregation. From my position the earliest date for reopening would be July 5th. In discussion with Fr. Randy we both concur on this as a tentative date for us to consider.
Going slow and looking to a possible reopening in July allows us to prepare in the following ways:
-Complete reopening protocols to minimize risk of exposure
-Allow 7th Day Adventist to do groundwork of preparation in sanctuary
-Gain further input from the congregation on needs and concerns
-Consider carefully the question of our children's ministry
-Develop further technology for continued online worship alongside of gathering
-Watch what happens with the other churches that relaunch immediately
-Pray
We are following the directives of our Bishop and the guidelines he has set forth for congregations to gather together once again. His requirements include:
-Everyone wear masks at all times - including preaching, readings, and liturgy
-Seating at proper social distancing
-No congregational singing - period!
-Strict communion safety protocols
-Cleaning of sanctuary before and after
-No coffee hour social time following the service
Let us continue to pray for guidance and discernment going forward. We are actively working on a detailed plan for reopening, and I will send out to all of you once it is completed. Covid 19 remains a threat. It is present in Bakersfield and many members of our congregation are vulnerable. While risk of exposure may be low at the moment, this could change.
I hope you will all find this approach both wise and agreeable. Please let me know you thoughts. I value your feedback on all these matters. Send me an email or feel free to call me anytime.
God Bless You,
Fr. Jack
LETTER TO CONGREGATION
FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2020
When to Reopen the Church
We are now beginning to see the easing of the Covid 19 restrictions regarding social interaction. Some business are starting to reopen with continuing social distancing protocols in place. This is phase 1. Churches with larger gatherings of people are scheduled for a longer wait time until phase 3. As much as we all miss being together in the chapel, let us proceed with wisdom and care for all. There are many in our congregation for whom this virus remains very dangerous. Fr. Randy and I are monitoring the directions from the Bishop and public health officials, and will develop a plan for regathering that includes proper protocols to maximize our safety and health. We will keep you informed every step of the way. I think that it is likely to be another month or so at least.
I am continuing in prayer for each of you. Please don't hesitate to call and let me know how you are doing.
Blessings,
Fr. Jack
FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2020
When to Reopen the Church
We are now beginning to see the easing of the Covid 19 restrictions regarding social interaction. Some business are starting to reopen with continuing social distancing protocols in place. This is phase 1. Churches with larger gatherings of people are scheduled for a longer wait time until phase 3. As much as we all miss being together in the chapel, let us proceed with wisdom and care for all. There are many in our congregation for whom this virus remains very dangerous. Fr. Randy and I are monitoring the directions from the Bishop and public health officials, and will develop a plan for regathering that includes proper protocols to maximize our safety and health. We will keep you informed every step of the way. I think that it is likely to be another month or so at least.
I am continuing in prayer for each of you. Please don't hesitate to call and let me know how you are doing.
Blessings,
Fr. Jack
LETTER TO CONGREGATION
SATURDAY, MARCH 21, 2020
Hello to All,
Hope all is well with each of you, as we are laying low in the efforts to defeat the corona virus. I am sending to you a couple of updates for the weekend which include a few "prophetic" moments of scripture that I experienced this week. I trust that God has been making His presence known to you also.
Online Service
We may be unable to gather together physically for Sunday worship, but we can continue to be joined together in the Spirit. We are in Christ, and He is in us. Through that connection of faith and grace, we have fellowship with one another and with God. In order to facilitate that connection we are moving our worship services to an online format. In this manner we can all be joined together through a common hub on the internet, and share our lives and faith with one another. God is not limited by time or distance. He is present everywhere at once - including with each of us as we connect at the same time.
Our first worship service online will be available for participation tomorrow morning at 10am- our usual service time. I will send the email link for you to "log in" as soon as available. When you sign on take a moment to enter a greeting to all in the comment section. This way we can greet one another as we begin our worship together.
Service Booklets
We mailed out to you a packet containing the service booklets for Lent and Easter, along with the scripture readings through the Easter season. By now it is my hope that all of you have received them. With our usual booklets in hand it will make it easy to participate in the prayers and liturgy, just like normal. Just in case you have not received the packet in time, I am attaching the liturgy for Lent in both Word and PDF formats. Page numbers are the same as the booklets. You may use these yourself if convenient, and/or send along to others you may wish to invite to participate in our online worship.
Prophetic Words
God is working in our midst and in the midst of our community in this hour of trial that has come upon the earth. Here are a few prophetic moments that I experienced this week, which I believe are for all of us here at Ascension.
-A scripture from Verna Reed - Isaiah 41:10.
"Fear not for I am with you
Be not dismayed for I am your God
I will strengthen you, I will help you
I will uphold you with my righteous right hand"
-A psalm from Morning Prayer - Ps 46
"God is our refuge and strength,
a very present help in trouble.
Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way,
Though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea,
though its waters roar and foam,
though the mountains tremble at its swelling
There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God,
the holy habitation of the Most High.
God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved
God will help her when morning dawns....."
- A Song from Dc. Leslie - "What a Friend We have in Jesus"
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n6qXfZPtzsM
Blessings to All,
Fr. Jack
SATURDAY, MARCH 21, 2020
Hello to All,
Hope all is well with each of you, as we are laying low in the efforts to defeat the corona virus. I am sending to you a couple of updates for the weekend which include a few "prophetic" moments of scripture that I experienced this week. I trust that God has been making His presence known to you also.
Online Service
We may be unable to gather together physically for Sunday worship, but we can continue to be joined together in the Spirit. We are in Christ, and He is in us. Through that connection of faith and grace, we have fellowship with one another and with God. In order to facilitate that connection we are moving our worship services to an online format. In this manner we can all be joined together through a common hub on the internet, and share our lives and faith with one another. God is not limited by time or distance. He is present everywhere at once - including with each of us as we connect at the same time.
Our first worship service online will be available for participation tomorrow morning at 10am- our usual service time. I will send the email link for you to "log in" as soon as available. When you sign on take a moment to enter a greeting to all in the comment section. This way we can greet one another as we begin our worship together.
Service Booklets
We mailed out to you a packet containing the service booklets for Lent and Easter, along with the scripture readings through the Easter season. By now it is my hope that all of you have received them. With our usual booklets in hand it will make it easy to participate in the prayers and liturgy, just like normal. Just in case you have not received the packet in time, I am attaching the liturgy for Lent in both Word and PDF formats. Page numbers are the same as the booklets. You may use these yourself if convenient, and/or send along to others you may wish to invite to participate in our online worship.
Prophetic Words
God is working in our midst and in the midst of our community in this hour of trial that has come upon the earth. Here are a few prophetic moments that I experienced this week, which I believe are for all of us here at Ascension.
-A scripture from Verna Reed - Isaiah 41:10.
"Fear not for I am with you
Be not dismayed for I am your God
I will strengthen you, I will help you
I will uphold you with my righteous right hand"
-A psalm from Morning Prayer - Ps 46
"God is our refuge and strength,
a very present help in trouble.
Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way,
Though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea,
though its waters roar and foam,
though the mountains tremble at its swelling
There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God,
the holy habitation of the Most High.
God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved
God will help her when morning dawns....."
- A Song from Dc. Leslie - "What a Friend We have in Jesus"
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n6qXfZPtzsM
Blessings to All,
Fr. Jack
LETTER TO CONGREGATION
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 18, 2020
Greetings to All,
As the intensity of the Corona virus pandemic is growing, the size of acceptable numbers of gatherings is shrinking. By now I'm certain that we are all aware of the need to limit social interactions in a community efforts to limit the exponential increase of illness in the population. Our hospitals can readily be overwhelmed and those who are elderly/fragile among us are most at risk.
I want to commend all of you for your engagement in the precautions we put in place over the past couple of weeks, as we gathered for worship on Sunday mornings. The developments of the past few days dictate that it is now time to go to the next level. We will not be gathering for church services or mid week meetings - starting immediately: No Experiencing God Study on Thursdays and No Worship Services on Sundays. These restrictions may be in place for some time.
In place of our gathering in person we are preparing to transition to an electronic platform for times of worship and teaching. I am actively working with the Vestry to bring a method of streaming our services online. There are various ways to do this and we are currently looking for the best option Basically we will send you a link to click on that will connect you with our "virtual chapel" where we can all participate in worship together.
Although not able to be physically present with one another, we remain united In Christ by the power of the Holy Spirit. This remains true at all times but especially in the midst of this hour of trial we are facing. Let us join our hearts together in prayer for one another, for our nation, and for all the world that God will deliver us from this plague and that people everywhere would find renewed faith in Jesus.
I will remain in regular communication with you by email, by phone, and even mail. Please do not hesitate to contact me with any concerns or needs whether spiritual or physical. All the staff at Ascension are available to you at this time. I am praying for each one of you and our church family.
May the Peace of God, which passes all understanding
Keep your hearts and minds in the knowledge and love of God
and of His Son our Savior Jesus Christ
And the Blessing of God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit
Be among you, Be within you, and Remain with You always
Together with You In Christ,
Jack+
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 18, 2020
Greetings to All,
As the intensity of the Corona virus pandemic is growing, the size of acceptable numbers of gatherings is shrinking. By now I'm certain that we are all aware of the need to limit social interactions in a community efforts to limit the exponential increase of illness in the population. Our hospitals can readily be overwhelmed and those who are elderly/fragile among us are most at risk.
I want to commend all of you for your engagement in the precautions we put in place over the past couple of weeks, as we gathered for worship on Sunday mornings. The developments of the past few days dictate that it is now time to go to the next level. We will not be gathering for church services or mid week meetings - starting immediately: No Experiencing God Study on Thursdays and No Worship Services on Sundays. These restrictions may be in place for some time.
In place of our gathering in person we are preparing to transition to an electronic platform for times of worship and teaching. I am actively working with the Vestry to bring a method of streaming our services online. There are various ways to do this and we are currently looking for the best option Basically we will send you a link to click on that will connect you with our "virtual chapel" where we can all participate in worship together.
Although not able to be physically present with one another, we remain united In Christ by the power of the Holy Spirit. This remains true at all times but especially in the midst of this hour of trial we are facing. Let us join our hearts together in prayer for one another, for our nation, and for all the world that God will deliver us from this plague and that people everywhere would find renewed faith in Jesus.
I will remain in regular communication with you by email, by phone, and even mail. Please do not hesitate to contact me with any concerns or needs whether spiritual or physical. All the staff at Ascension are available to you at this time. I am praying for each one of you and our church family.
May the Peace of God, which passes all understanding
Keep your hearts and minds in the knowledge and love of God
and of His Son our Savior Jesus Christ
And the Blessing of God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit
Be among you, Be within you, and Remain with You always
Together with You In Christ,
Jack+