August 3 Update from Eliana Maxim
Seattle Presbytery
“Only live your life in a manner worthy of the Gospel of Christ, so that... I will know that you are standing firm in one spirit, striving side by side with one mind for the faith of the Gospel, and are in no way intimidated by your opponents.” (Ephesians 1:27-28)
Dear friends,
We’re halfway through summer (give or take a couple of weeks) and I pray that you have had the opportunity to enjoy this season. A season that has brought both sunshine and warmth, as well as a significant amount of planning and regrouping as recommendations around COVID 19 and its variants continue to change.
Scott and I understand the challenges many of you are facing as you consider in-person worship, others of you providing pastoral care as hospitalization rates climb, all while you continue to juggle the demands of family and home.
We encourage you to take advantage of the Executive Board’s Sabbath Grant opportunity. The application process is simple, and the $750 amount can provide our minister members an opportunity to take a break, rest, restore, and recharge for the fall. Please note that we are giving priority to ministers who did not receive a Sabbath grant in 2020, are solo pastors, or in a validated ministry. All others will be placed on a wait list as we ensure everyone has a chance to apply.
As congregations prepare for different ways of doing worship that meet the needs of the community, we know there are costs associated with these changes. The Executive Board has also set monies aside to support churches in this manner. Please see the COVID Worship & Technology Grant section for more information on how to apply.
The Wisconsin Council of Churches has been providing us with excellent resources for guiding the planning of congregational life, including worship, since the start of COVID. Their latest document (released July 27) is now available.
And finally, a reminder that both Scott and I –and the rest of the presbytery staff – are here to support and encourage you in your ministries. Please feel free to contact us with questions, comments, or simply just to chat.
We are church together, and together we seek the kin-dom of God in our congregations, our neighborhoods, and communities, even in the midst of a pandemic.
In grace and peace,
Rev. Eliana Maxim
Co-Executive Presbyter