I am adding two parts to the service tomorrow. I will be having a children's sermon (no box this time) about Vacation Bible School which starts the next day and I will call up all VBS volunteers at the start of the announcements for a blessing.
I am accustomed to blessing and recognizing those who volunteer of their time in ministries of the congregation and want to continue the practice. Saying thank you is always appropriate.
Both Bishop Eaton and Bishop Briner have suggested congregations not have remote or virtual Holy Communion services. I suggest First Lutheran abide by this advice and not have Holy Communion services
The poncho-like vestment worn at most worship services is to be worn by the presiding minister at Holy Communion. Since there was no sacrament, the vestment was not worn.
Church signs with message boards like the one at First Lutheran Church in Edinburg can create some interesting situations. Sometimes the sign does not communicate what is intended. Following 9/11 at