From the Pastor, August 6, 2020

Greetings, beloved children of God

 

It is August. I cannot believe we are where we are as a community, still shaped by the pandemic. Every week seems to challenge our latest normal, and I don’t know about you–but the “ups and downs” are wearing me down.  And, frankly, I miss seeing everyone.  But Pete and I–we still are home, practicing strong safety measures for our family and for our neighbors. We may be tired of the pandemic, but it’s not done yet. 

 

Churches and staff have been struggling with the pandemic since March, like everyone else, trying to figure out what to do.  A little over a week ago, the Wisconsin Council of Churches released an updated guideline for community churches.  I shared this with the council already, and I know several of you have seen this as well over the news and social media channels.  I suggest you browse it so you also understand the decision making process we have here at Bay Shore.  We aren’t there yet as a community to open our doors and be normal.  It’s just not time, not yet.  

 

I am truly grateful that our Summer Special Appeal ended on time and on target! $15,000 came in and we have ordered our camera and we have appointments scheduled to get our wiring and such ready to go. So this Fall will feel different again–and the staff and I are working on ways to be creative and to bring more options virtually. I find myself becoming what I never thought I would be–a virtual pastor. Who knew? Well, God did. And I am adapting and moving with the flow because drowning or waiting for a life boat is not an option. So getting more comfortable in front of a camera, rewriting and creating more virtual offerings–it’s Bay Shore’s new normal. Please pray for the staff as we maneuver through this fast moving river. Support us as we try new things and see what works and what does not. Pray for our committees to continue their work, as able, to support the church’s mission and ministries. And thank you for your generosity in keeping us afloat and above the waves.

 

When Jesus said to Peter that Peter could walk on water, it wasn’t a joke. Perhaps the pandemic is showing the Church that we can walk on water too and not be swept away.

 

Blessings and peace,

Pastor Sarah