A note from Pastor Jeff…

We have two really important updates. 

First, this Sunday (September 20) is Family Reunion Sunday at LifeJourney!  We will gather at 11:00 am for outdoor worship, socially distanced with masks.  We’re installing a small stage.  The Praise Team will lead worship and I’ll be preaching.  We will baptize and induct a couple new members and also present membership pins to those who are marking milestone membership anniversaries.      

The weather forecast calls for clear skies and 72 degrees.  BYO lawn chair or feel free to use one of ours.  We’ll have a tent for those who need shade.  For the rest of us, remember your sunscreen.  You’re welcome to bring your own lunch to eat after worship if you want.  For those who cannot attend in-person, we will livestream worship in its entirety. 

Second, we’re ready to take the next step in our reopening process.  Our Board of Directors wants to thank everyone who participated in our congregational survey.  The survey indicated that 92% of you are glad the Board has been cautious in the reopening process.  When asked whether you would attend worship in the sanctuary right now with masks and social distancing, the results were: 26% definitely; 33% maybe; and 40% not now. 

At its September meeting, the Board carefully considered the survey results, as well as COVID trends in central Indiana and the experiences of other churches who’ve begun allowing small numbers of congregants to return via reservation systems.  The Board is also mindful that our Wednesday Night Outdoor Worship will end sometime in October when cold weather sets in.   

With all this in mind, the Board decided to begin allowing people to return to the sanctuary for Sunday 11 o’clock worship via a reservation system beginning October 18.  Masks, social distancing, thermometer check, and assigned seating will be required.  We’ll start small with no more than 40 people in the sanctuary (including musicians and media team).  We’ll see how things go for a few weeks, then assess whether we can expand.  We anticipate that the children’s wing will reopen in early November to a limited number of children also via a reservation system.  For those who prefer livestreaming, it will continue in perpetuity.

As mid-October approaches, we will share details for those who wish to make reservations.  Also, please bear in mind that plans could change if negative COVID trends accelerate. 

We are so very grateful for everyone’s patience and amazing faithfulness in these unprecedented times.  We’re a family, we love each other deeply, we’re feeling out way along by faith, and we’re still being church.  I hope to see many of you this Sunday at 11 o’clock for our outdoor worship experience!

With love and appreciation,

Pastor Jeff