COVID-19 UPDATE
July 16, 2020
Dear Tuscumbia First Family,
In my last congregational letter, I made reference to the unpredictable nature of the Hebrew people’s journey through the wilderness. The present pandemic with which we are contenting is also very unpredictable. Like the Hebrew people, we are learning what it really means to trust God in uncharted times.
As I shared in this week’s midweek, pandemics are not new. Down through the centuries, the church has been God’s light through many different pandemics. That is our opportunity in the present.
Our Annual Conference developed a response using John Wesley’s famous words “Do No Harm.” Chad Kennington and I received a new face mask from our District Superintendent with the cross and flame on it and also a poster with a picture of John Wesley. John Wesley has had a face mask put on him and he is holding a bottle of hand sanitizer. The bottom says, “Please wear your mask at Church to protect others.”
Based on the order that has come from our Governor, Kay Ivey, Alabamians are ordered to wear their mask when in public places. As citizens of this state, we need to set an example by wearing a face mask. That includes coming to in-person worship. We do have some masks available if you need one.
I know many are longing to gather with their Sunday School class. With the rise of cases in our area so far this month, we are not certain when that will happen. I encourage you to stay in touch with the members of your class. Also, communicate with those who may not have anyone checking on them. Let’s be the ears and voice of Christ to others.
If you do not feel comfortable coming to Worship and Bible Study, I encourage you to join in through streaming. We are live streaming both the 9:45 and 11:00 worship services and the 10:00 am Bible Study. If you are not able to get online and would like a DVD or CD of the worship service, contact the office.
In the midst of this journey, Stephanie Manco felt led to resign as Director of the Day School. She is continuing until the week of August 4th. She felt lead to be more available to her daughter during this uncertain school year.
The Personnel Team did interviews of potential new Directors of the Day School. Mrs. Katie Allen has been hired and will be starting the last week in July. Katie joined our Church last year. Pray for both Stephanie and Katie in this transition time.
I want to thank you for your faithful stewardship. You have been faithful to the ongoing ministries of the Church with your tithes to the Ministry Budget. We have been able to fulfill our commitments to our mission partners through Faith Promise, and some have given extra to Faith Promise so that we can meet some needs our mission partners have due to the pandemic. The only area that is running behind is Capital Funds, which pays our loan.
The Rev. Sam Hardie will be preaching this Sunday. He is a retired United Methodist Church preacher. One of the churches he served was Sheffield First United Methodist Church. Pray for Sam as he proclaims the Gospel Sunday.
In Christ’s Love and Service,
Rudy Guess