When the people of Israel went into exile, many of them married native people from the Fertile Crescent. The children of these unions were "half-breeds" and when the people returned to Israel, these people were different from the traditional Israelites in race, culture,and religion. Because of these differences, the Samaritans were often hated in New Testament times.
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