Dear FUMC Congregation,

Bishop Holston met with the Cabinet concerning an appropriate time to reopen UMC Churches throughout the state. Here is a portion of his message;

In consultation with the Cabinet and according to the latest guidance from public health officials, I am strongly recommending that leaders of each local church continue to suspend in‐person worship services, gatherings, meetings and events through June 10.

Worship and other in‐person gatherings are allowed to resume beginning Sunday, June 14. The Cabinet has outlined the safety concerns and guidelines for resuming in‐person worship in a new resource called “Reset | Restart | Renew.” These guidelines are the product of prayer, research, data analysis and many conversations with public health officials, church leaders and state leaders. Clergy and church leaders are strongly encouraged to use this document to navigate the transition to resuming in-person worship.

This past Thursday a few of us met to discuss the procedures we will put in place when reopening does occur. The attached document is an outline of that discussion. We will continue to prepare for our resumption of in-Sanctuary fellowship on June 14^th.  In the interim, let’s remember to seek the Lord through prayer, Bible reading and reflection. We’ve posted some devotionals and bible studies on our FUMC website that may be useful for your edification and we encourage you to view the Sunday message as time permits.

The Scripture reminds us to “Wait on the LORD; Be of good courage, And He shall strengthen your heart; Wait, I say, on the LORD!” (Psalm 27:14)

Stay strong and stay connected-let someone know that you are thinking of them today!

Mark