Experiencing Change with our Neighbors

Peace, neighbor. Yes, these are weird times we live in right now. Everything is going to be alright though because we have God in our lives. We must continue to spread a message of hope for all of our neighbors. Yes, in-person worship is going to look different for a little while. That’s okay. We are the church, not the building, and “where two or three gathers in my name…” Yes, we have a lot to be excited about in the days ahead. Apparently, there is a new pastor starting July 1 st . We will be holding service outdoors in the yard of Marble Memorial on July 12 th . We are planning to serve communion that Sunday as well.
We have some exciting ideas that are in the works to provide a few new things to what we do at Marble Memorial. Erin Tellas spoke about change this last Sunday and she made some good points. Change does not have to be bad and a lot of times it can be good. I understand Marble Memorial has gone through a lot of changes prior to my arrival as part of the Vital Church Initiative. I have heard how some the change has been difficult for some of our neighbors and I get it. I really do, because my home church went through the same process. We struggle when things change in our church buildings more than any other place, in my experience. Let me ask everybody a question: why? We change things in our lives, our homes, our careers, etc. We do not always like them but eventually understand the need for change. So, why do we struggle so much when it comes to change in our church buildings?
Earlier, I stated that we must continue to spread a message of hope. With God on our side, this should not be an issue. If we continue to sort things out on our own without listening for God, then we might run into some
problems. In these weird times that we currently live in change is inevitable. “Pivot” is the word being thrown
around a lot lately instead of “change”. Either way, we will keep praying to discern what God’s will is for Marble Memorial in the days ahead. We will also continue this conversation about what is next and how we go about working with whatever comes our way. At the end of the day, we are still brothers and sisters in Christ.
Melissa and I are so excited for what God has in store for us here in Milan. We look forward to getting to meet all of you in person and becoming good neighbors with everyone. I want to share something, and you are going to hear this phrase a lot, “Let your faith be bigger than your fear and know that God has got your back.”
Let me also address what is happening and some helpful changes with my arriving to Marble. On July 5 th , I will be worshiping with the congregation online through Facebook and YouTube. As I stated before, on July 12th , we will be worshiping together in person on the lawn of Marble Memorial. Our plan is to offer in-person worship outdoors, weather permitting, for the rest of month. While we worship outside there will need to be some precautions taken.

Outdoor Worship guidelines:
-Wearing a mask is suggested (not required) and we will social distance.
-Bring your own chair, Bible, maybe some water and umbrella for extra shade (if needed).
-We will not be singing and no hugs or handshakes.
-Remember that not everyone is where you might be with COVID-19, be respectful and love your neighbor,
please.

If the weather forecast looks like outdoor worship will not work, then we will call service off the day before. Then Justin Murray (Music Director) and I will livestream service from the church on Sunday morning. More details will be shared in regard to worship in the sanctuary as we continue planning.
God Bless and have a great day!