Tuesday January 4, 2022
Dear Friends of St. Andrew’s,
Here is some news to report. The office will be closed today through Friday because on Monday I tested positive for COVID. I need to fulfill the required five days of isolation. I am asymptomatic and feeling fine. I am working from home. At the same time, our administrator Christina remains at home with COVID symptoms and is not fit to return to work as of yet.
On a brighter note, I will be cleared to return to work this Sunday. This is the First Sunday after the Epiphany and the Baptism of Jesus. Darrin the Music Director will be back as well to bring music to our Sundays again.
At the 8:30 Eucharist we will participate in the Renewal of Baptismal Vows. At the 11:00 service Bishop Rayford High will confirm candidates and celebrate the Eucharist. Both services are online only. There will be music, but no choir. Only those being confirmed, and a few essential staff will be present in person.
Roy Hinajosa and Erick Reynero are the folks being confirmed. They were very enthusiastic students in the Essential story class and prepared well for their confirmations. Both Erick and Roy are looking forward the liturgy by which they officially join the Episcopal Church and our St. Andrew’s congregation in particular.
I know missing out on important friendships at church is a real spiritual and emotional loss. So, as we weather this wave of COVID, we will return to in-person services and fellowship as soon as possible. When we get back to in-person gatherings we will pay attention to the COVID safety precautions -knowing that gatherings or any kind comes with some risk. Please everyone get your vaccines and your booster shots.
On behalf of the vestry, staff, and myself thank you all for your patience and ongoing prayerful and financial support of the life and ministries at St. Andrew’s.
May the God of hope, fill us with all joy and peace in believing, through the power of the Holy Spirit. (Romans 15:13.)
Yours in Christ,
Fr. David