Grand Valley United Methodist Church
November 2020 Special Update
Yes, we are open, worshiping, and connecting, online, in small groups and it is different.
It seems we were working on getting used to inside worship again when the local COVID conditions lead us to return to worship outside the sanctuary. Wow. What a blow. It hurts, we are frustrated, we are saddened and we are tired of the effects of COVID on our life. Yet, “For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love, and self-discipline.” (2 Timothy 1:7, NIV) Through Christ, we will find creative ways to continue the work we are called to carry out; to love one another, and to make disciples.
Here are some ways in which we can pull together for worship and encouragement.
1. Engage with one another during online worship. We are using Facebook as our primary online platform as it is available to all and offers interactive opportunities. For example, during the introduction, I will be asking people to let us know if they are watching. Then I will share this so we will know we are not alone in worship.
2. We can utilize Zoom for Fellowship time before and or after worship. Through this platform, we can check in on one another, pray together, share joys and concerns, and continue the connection we usually share in person.
3. Safely gather for worship and more. By now, many of us have family or close friends that are able to safely gather during COVID. So, why not gather and worship together with online worship on Sunday or gather for Bible Study or for hymn singing? Remember, “For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.” (Matthew 18:20, KJV)
4. We can use the telephone to keep in touch or even get 2 or 3 more on one phone call for fellowship (freeconference.com)
We are only limited by our imagination or lack of determination. When we find ourselves saying or thinking the church is closed, we can choose to use other languages. We are open and are gathering online or in safe small groups, 2 or 3 at a time. We are open for worship, to worship, anytime, anywhere with anyone.
Over the next week or so we will be announcing opportunities to celebrate a “Traditional Christmas” with Grand Valley UMC including a short Christmas Eve worship service on the front lawn of the church, singing “Silent Night,” and people walking away taking the light of Christmas into the world.
The church has never closed, and never will, for Christ lives in our hearts and we the people of Christ are the church, not a building or gathering place.
I bid you words of love and encouragement as we continue to worship online, on the phone, in small groups, and in our hearts and minds.
Peace be with you,
Pastor, J.R. Atkins
Worshiping with technology is a lot easier if we know how to use it. In the coming days, we will announce a class schedule for help with technology for worship and staying connected. If you have a smartphone, bring it to class and we will help you sharpen your tech skills. Here are a few learning tasks:
1. How to find Worship on Facebook Live
2. How to set up a Facebook account just for worship
3. How to add comments during worship on Facebook Live
4. How to log into a Zoom session
5. How to mute and unmute the audio and video on Zoom
6. Where to find the chat function in Zoom
7. Other helpful hints for staying connected with the church and our community
The classes will be small, we will wear a face mask and maintain social distance. We can meet in the fellowship call and wipe down the surfaces after class.
Online worship begins at 11:00 am MT on the church Facebook page:
Page https://www.facebook.com/PalisadeUnitedMethodistChurch
You can also view it following the worship on YouTube:
https://bit.ly/38V6Sdh
At the beginning of worship, the pastor will ask you to comment on Facebook to let us know you are in worship with us. We would like to recognize who is in worship to add a sense of community. If you prefer not to be recognized, that ok is too. We love you all.
We plan to add a Zoom Fellowship time before and or after worship. Stay tuned for details.
We are dedicated to improving the lives of those in our community. Your contribution today helps us make a difference.
Donation Mailing Address: PO Box 125, Parachute, CO 81635