"Suicide deaths in the U.S. reached a record high in 2017. Over 47,000 people died by suicide -- about 14 people for every 100,000. All our cumulative prevention efforts of the last 40 years failed to turn downward the ever-increasing number of suicide deaths!
"In a recent video, Presiding Bishop Eaton challenged the ELCA to 'break the silence' surrounding suicide. It is time for the silence to end!"
When was the last time you heard a sermon on suicide?
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