Two dioceses in Lower Michigan will soon share the same bishop. Interestingly, a few years ago, the two ELCA synods in the same geography were contemplating merging.
With so many congregations in decline, bishops are having fewer congregations to oversee and the expense of the bishops and their staffs is being felt. I think Lutherans will be watching the Episcopal experiment.
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