Last week I forwarded a long letter from Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton regarding the decision of the Trump administration to declare Israeli settlements in the Occupied Territories not to be a violation of international law. The ELCA favors a two-state solution in Israel/Palestine and this move will make peace more difficult.
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