Doing Church Differently

On Sunday March 22, about 50 people participated in Mount Zion's first foray into virtual church.

Using Zoom conferencing software, we not only heard the service, but we also were able to participate. Pastor Philip led the service which started with a prelude from Music Director Amy. And just as in a live service we congregated and chatted prior and after the service. The only thing missing was the coffee pot.

29 Westmount Road, remains closed, but the service time remains the same. Join us next Sunday at 10 am when Pastor Philip, Music Director, Amy and other members of the congregation will hold services that you can not only watch but be a part of.

It is easy. Here’s how.

See instructions for joining up

It has been a tumultuous couple of days and the COVID-19 virus has turned our world upside down, things will be very different from how they were. It has impacted our personal and community lives very profoundly. As we were reminded last week, now is the time that we need each other in ways that we have not thought of, being there for each other and being mindful of the weak and frail ones in our midst. This is a time to reflect on how our behaviour and activities not only impacts us but also those around us.

With the steps that the federal and provincial governments have taken and also the latest letter from the bishops of the ELCIC, the leadership of Mount Zion met Tuesday morning (Mar 17) and have decided that we will suspend all activities, including worship and committee meetings at church till further notice. This would also include the mid-week Lenten services, confirmation activities, and choir practices, but the office would remain open as usual.

During this time we are also exploring as to how we could stay connected as a community. Phones and email are couple of ways to stay in touch, especially with those that are by themselves. We are doing the needful, with Amy’s help, to continue committee meetings and maybe even worship through Zoom videoconferencing. We will have further details on this as things become clearer. We will also make sure that the members continue to receive Sunday sermons, either via email or a hard copy.

Please keep in touch with anyone that live by themselves and be supportive in any way. If you need to contact the church please feel free to do that. Though I will be in isolation for two weeks from this Thursday, please do feel free to contact me also on 519-781-5602.

Please keep safe during this period of uncertainty and let us continue to pray for healing of body, mind and soul.

Peace,

Philip