Hello, friends! Earlier this week you received an email regarding the practicalities of this Sunday. I wanted to send a follow-up sharing a bit more of the spirit of Sunday.

Months and months ago, Christ Church began discussing a desire to extend radical hospitality to others. Though it looks different right now, we want to extend that same spirit on Sunday through “hands-free hospitality” as we resume on-site worship. What in the world does that mean? Well, friends, here is an example. I am a hugger and I come from a family of huggers. My mom once hugged a waitress for no apparent reason. I mean, the waitress was nice, but she had done nothing notable except call my mother, “Hon,” and drop a plate of killer chicken salad. That said, I have a hard time not hugging! Nevertheless, I am forfeiting this practice for now. Instead, I encourage air-hugs, ghost-fives, and enthusiastic waves during the peace. Hands-free hospitality is the name of the game. Do catch up with friends while maintaining a safe distance! Do meet someone new without shaking their hand! Do receive a hands-free blessing if you choose not to partake in communion!

Secondly, I want to recognize that each of us has a different level of social comfort these days. Mine can change thrice in any given day. No matter your level, I want to ask everyone to be respectful of others’ boundaries. Some may seem overly cautious, but let’s pause and consider immune compromise, age related risks, loved ones with the virus, or general sensitivity. Let’s also consider many are “pandemic-fatigued” and find the caution exhausting. The foremost posture here is grace. Remembering we have received it, let’s extend it to others, regardless of disagreement.

Thirdly, for the foreseeable future, our services will be “Family Worship,” which means kids will worship with their parents. We are going to do our best to engage the kids throughout the service (and to keep the service a little shorter), and we see this as a great opportunity for families to do the same. With that said, I want to ask families to stick close together as much as possible for safety and to (finally) worship together!

Before you go, here are a few pragmatic notes:

• Bring your own coffee & treats, as our treat station will be closed
• RSVP online if you plan to attend the 8:30am service
• Bring your own chair or blanket if you plan to attend the 9am service outside
• The East entrance to the parking lot will be closed; please use the south entrances
• Use the bathroom before you arrive, if possible
• Please don’t come if you are sick

I think that’s all for now! I am sure some of you have questions. Please do not hesitate to reach out. I can’t wait to air high-five you on Sunday!

With love in Christ,
Amanda