My beloved Mt. Tam Church family,
Did you watch the 49ers game last Sunday? Even though I’m more of a college football fan, I have been missing football enough to tune into the 49ers game. It was sad that they lost but I have to say that my biggest take-away was the very odd experience of a stadium devoid of fans, yet there was crowd noise on the TV broadcast! It was very weird and while I understand why it is done, doesn’t it seem strange to you? It was almost funny at times—I kept wondering, “how do they know which of the ‘ready-to-go’ sound bites to use?” It made viewing the game on TV more normal and still, it seemed very odd indeed.
That’s how I experience recording online only worship—very odd indeed. Odd because there is no congregation to whom to preach, no feedback from voices and faces, no interaction except with the very few people who are part of the production. Don’t get me wrong—I am grateful to God for the technology and tools that allow us to live stream and record and thus, continue safely in worship together. But it has been a strange experience. I’m more “at church” with my congregation in-person, together!
Which is why my gratitude is soaring as we are gathering together in person, outdoors. Last Sunday’s service brought 48 church members to the outdoor location plus about 40-50 more online. Wow! I kept finding myself tearing up with the sheer joy of being in one another’s presence, seeing you, being with you. It was a beautiful time and I hope that more of you will feel safe and free to join this Sunday, as….
WE CONFIRM OUR YOUTH!! Five of the youth of our congregation are making their professions of faith and joining as full members. What an honor and joy! So whether you are in place in the outdoor worship center or online, let us lift a prayer of thanksgiving! And one thought: for those of you who don’t feel that you can come to outdoor worship because of the challenges of Covid-19, here’s what you can do: drive around the parking lot, through the Preschool drop-off overhang and on the right are several parking spots reserved for Tamalpais Preschool, Monday-Friday. You can remain in your car (I still encourage you to wear a mask), open your windows and hear and see (some sight-line views are blocked but mostly you can see) the service!! There’s plenty of room so drive on up if that works for you!
And join in making a joyful noise onto the Lord—not a pre-recorded sound track, genuine praise to God who is so good and generous with us! With thanks to the many people who worked for months and put in tons of time and commitment to making the outdoor service a reality.
Peace,
Pastor Kim
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