COVID-19 and Faithful Community

Posted on April 14, 2020 | Posted by Mary Stoneback

Greetings,

In this time of pandemic, life has changed dramatically for Ascension Lutheran, but our mission has not.  In God’s grace, we continue to create faithful community, just in new ways.

Worship

As long as El Paso County’s Covid status is at orange, red, or purple, worship will be online only.  Worship is at 9:15 on Sunday mornings and is streamed live on our website.  When the County’s status is below orange, limited in-person worship will also occur, with RSVPs and masks required.

Our online worship service will include everything you’re used to in worship, including communion which you can participate in from home.  A downloadable bulletin is available each week, and visitors and members alike can fill out the connection card.

Other online and outdoor worship opportunities are also be available at various times, so stay tuned.

Other Activities

Most of our other church activities have also moved online, such as Bible Studies, Confirmation, Sunday fellowship time, and meetings.  When the weather allows it, some of these might meet outside.  When the county’s Covid status is at orange or below, some of these activities will meet inside, with limited numbers, social distancing and masks.  Check our website or contact the church office if you are unclear about where something will take place.

Community

Staying connected as a community is both more important and more challenging during this pandemic.  We have set up a phone tree to foster that connection.  If you would like help or receive calls as part of the tree, contact our office – 719-634-1694

Staff and the facility

Most of our staff will still be working at the church.  However, we do ask that you call ahead before coming by, in case we are working from home.  And, of course, please wear a mask when you come.

Children’s Learning Center

Our Children’s Learning Center (CLC) remains open.  When the local schools are closed, we are also providing care for students who are attending school online, but aren’t able to be home alone.

Service

As you can imagine, this crisis is leaving many in need.  We’ve been supporting CLC families and others with food, and we’ve been supporting Family Promise families with gift cards and donations.  The ways we care for our neighbor will likely evolve through this crisis, so stay tuned for how you can help.

Financial Support

Finally, moving to a mostly online community is a challenge financially as we aren’t passing the plate anymore.  If you are able to support the ministry of Ascension, please mail in a check to the office, or give online.  You can set up recurring giving there as well.

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It is tempting to give in to fear and anxiety in this time.  It is tempting to turn inward.  But we believe God has called us to join together and care for our neighbor.  And we believe God has given us what we need to heed that call – unending grace and the supportive community.  Join us in this ministry.

May the God of steadfastness and encouragement grant you to live in harmony with one another, in accordance with Christ Jesus, so that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. – Romans 15:5-6

God bless,

Ascension’s Executive Committee

Donna Crump, President; John Hayes, Vice-President; Russell Johnson, Treasurer; Chris Koehler, Secretary; Pastor Dan Holt; Pastor Daniel Smith 12/1/2020