The Spectrum of Transformation

Resurrection is the belief that new life and new beginnings come after death and deep grief. As Christians we gather (virtually or in-person) on Sundays to celebrate the Resurrection. As 2020 has piled on tragedy after problem after natural disaster, and as we have been separated from our in-person faith communities and gatherings, it can be hard to believe in the Resurrection and to center ourselves in its hope. I recently read an article that reminded me so clearly that Resurrection is a process, a spectrum. And one of the difficult realities of this is that life on the other side is usually different than the life before.
   
When I am at my lowest and struggling to see the end of this pandemic or struggling to see a way forward in our nation’s political life and democracy, I remind myself of the struggles of Good Friday and Holy Saturday. As Jesus breathed his last and his disciples scattered, Jesus’ ministry as the disciples knew it (in-person and communal) was over. It took time for the disciples to rearrange and figure out how to continue Jesus’ ministry of neighborly love, radical forgiveness, and inclusive community (read the book of Acts to hear all the drama, murder, power struggles, and eventual hope!). I think we are in that place as a church and world, too. We all will be changed as a result of this year. And the ministries of PoP have already and will continue to adapt to this new reality. We have been touched by the amazing shifts of so many of our people, willing to volunteer, help, be active online, call one another on the phone, and utilizing our property in new and unique ways (just to name a few shifts!)  

As we continue to respond to the “gifts” of 2020 and look to what New Life God has in store, we wanted to take a few moments and update you on the current life and work here at PoP.

+In-Person Outdoor, Covid-Safe Prayer Service (Outdoor Vespers) starts this Sunday at 5:00PM. RSVP at the Google form or contact one of the pastors to sign up. We’ll gather, safely, for communion (bring your own communion elements), a short meditation, prayer, and live music.  
+Our Fellowship Hall will return to its former self after this weekend as we close down the site and funnel the items to other fire victim donation centers, non-profits, and people in need. 

+PoP Financial Update Coming: This coming week you will be receiving a separate email outlining our financial picture as Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, for the end of 2020 and looking ahead into next year. We are so grateful for all of you and your support of our ministry and work amongst our faith community and the community outside of our doors. You have responded generously and your generosity was and is needed. We ask you to read this email carefully. It is serious news, but also, there is good news here as well. The pandemic is affecting everyone, and we feel, as your leadership and staff, that it is important to keep you all informed about our status and how we are preparing for the coming year.

These are some of the immediate changes in our ministry and midst here. As we look to the start of our education year, keep an eye out for Small Group Gatherings, Youth Group events, Bible Study and opportunities to hear about and find that “Resurrection Faith.” 

Peace,
Pr. Sara & Pr. Nate