Dear Members and Friends of All Saints,
Today I received some additional instructions from our Bishop on things to consider during the ongoing COVID-19 crisis. In his message he reminded us of our duty to obey the local authorities in their instructions. Earlier this afternoon, San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg issued a restriction on gatherings of over 50 people at a time. Fortunately, as we have two services on Sundays, we will be less affected than many other parishes.
Nevertheless, we will be altering our schedules a bit for the duration of the declared emergency:
- Effective this week, we will put our mid-week services and gatherings on hold until further notice. This will give everyone a chance to lay low during this time of increased risk.
- Since Ballard Hall is such a small space, we will also put Adult Sunday School on hold until further notice.
- Sunday worship at 9:00 and 11:15 will continue as normal, with only the Bread distributed during Communion.
- If you are sick please stay home for your own good and for the good of your neighbor. Also, please do contact your doctor.
- If you are in one of the at-risk demographics (e.g. immune-compromised), prayerfully consider also staying home for your own protection. Doing so is not a lack of faith, but is a matter of prudence in extraordinary circumstances. I or one of the other clergy would be happy to bring you Communion if you would like.
- For the sake of those who cannot attend services, we plan to livestream at least one service each week on our parish Facebook page. This will likely be using my own phone with the shot focused on the pulpit and altar so that only the altar party is visible.
- Additionally, I always podcast the sermon, which can be accessed on our Facebook page, our parish website, and through the major podcast apps.
- Finally, I intend to release a video on our YouTube channel later this week with tips on using the Prayer Book for private Sunday worship for those who cannot attend. A link to the video will be on our website, Facebook page, and emailed out once it is recorded.
Above all, remember to keep your trust in the Lord. These precautions are for extraordinary circumstances, but God is always in control. As you know, the situation remains fluid, and we will therefore be flexible. And please do contact me, one of the other clergy, or other ministry leaders if you have any pastoral needs; we want to be there for each other.
Faithfully yours in Christ,
Rev. Cn. Isaac J. Rehberg
Rector
