Masks
by Fr. Bill Van Oss
One of the things that this pandemic has taught us is that we need to be flexible. Using the CDC’s Covid Tracker tool, we have been following COVID-19 transmission rates in our area. For the past few months, Lee County has been in the “low” transmission range based on the number of cases per 100,000 residents and positivity rate. Unfortunately, the past week has seen a rise in both number of cases and positivity rate that has pushed us into the “substantial” community transmission category.
Therefore, we are now highly recommending that you wear a mask for all indoor gatherings here at St. Michael’s. Our choir, ushers and everyone serving at the altar will be wearing a mask for weekend services. We will continue to have social and coffee hours, but we highly recommend you wear a mask when you are not eating or drinking.
I know this news will be received with mixed reactions. I encourage you to look at mask wearing as something we can do to keep ourselves and others safe. It allows us to continue to gather for worship and other offerings with a layer of protection against this serious disease. Being able to remain together for in-person gatherings is our highest priority and this simple act can help us do that. Thank you for your patience and understanding as we make our way through these challenging times.
I’ll leave you with this Advent thought on being “chosen” by Br. James Koester of the Society of St. John the Evangelist:
Mary was chosen for the particular purpose of becoming the mother of God’s son. So too has God chosen us in Christ before the foundation of the world to be holy and blameless before God in love. Jesus, in the Gospel of John, reminds us: "You did not choose me but I chose you. And I appointed you to go and bear fruit, fruit that will last."
Peace,
Bill+
Moving Forward Updates from Fr. Bill
