message from Pastor Ragazinskas

March 2021

Dear Members of Lutheran Church of the Resurrection,

Church Services during the Covid-19 Pandemic

The current crisis caused by the Coronavirus or Covid-19 pandemic is disrupting every facet of life for our entire continent and for most of the world. Increasing restrictions on social ties and connections—“social distancing”—while endorsed by most medical authorities are now also being mandated increasingly by governing authorities. Among the practices of social distancing is the avoidance of group settings—settings such as Christian worship. A growing number of LCMS churches are suspending services temporarily because of Covid-19. 

This presents significant challenges for Christian life and the Church’s well-being. Christians treasure His Word and Sacraments and so we treasure regular corporate worship. Colossians 3:16 says, “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly…” Similarly, we treasure fellowship with one another and know that the Word tells us not to forsake meeting together so that we can continue to encourage each other (Heb. 10:25). 

Although The Lutheran Church of the Resurrection initially suspended in-Sanctuary services, we already had procedures in place and were blessed to be able to continue services via live stream from the Church. Praise be to God, we have since returned to in-sanctuary service by following all recommended precautions to stop the spread of this deadly disease. All individuals entering the church building are required to wear masks – no exceptions! Additionally, we have reduced seating capacity so that appropriate social distancing is followed, while allowing families to congregate in “family pods.”

We are continuing to have communion and here, likewise, are following the most stringent policies to reduce the possibility of spreading the virus. Rather than taking the Lord’s Supper traditionally at the altar, the congregation stands in queue observing social distancing, removing masks only to accept the Body and Blood of our Lord. Following Communion, congregants return to their seats continuing to observe good social distancing. 

These same practices are in effect for all Sunday School sessions, Board of Lay Leaders (BLL), and Board of Elders meetings.

The Pastor, all LCR staff, Elders, and BLL members are doing everything in their power to provide a safe environment for those attending live services and will continue to minister to those who are unable to attend in person or are uncomfortable in doing so. Irrespective of how individuals observe church services, we will continue to minister to the needs of our congregants and others who wish to participate in our services.

May God keep us all safe and well in our efforts to praise and glorify His name. 

 I wish you all God’s blessings, peace, comfort, and support in this hard and trying time!

In Christ,

Pastor Nathan Ragazinskas