Pastor’s weekly newsletter | 3-6-2020

Good morning everyone,

As you are aware, there is a lot of news regarding the Coronavirus here in the United States. As of today, we have four people in Florida who have tested positive for the virus. There are no reports of anyone in the Keys or Miami with the virus at this time. Churches across the country are reacting in a variety of ways, some of which are drastic and some mild. Since we have no reported cases at this time, we will continue with the passing of the peace. Jaye J. and I are comfortable with however you feel comfortable. If you are comfortable with a handshake or hug that is okay. If you would rather elbow bump someone, that is fine too. If you would rather remain in your pew and wave to people, it’s all fine. We will have Purell in the back and disinfecting wipes up front. Let us keep the world in our prayers during this time.

Let us also keep our friends in Tennessee who were walloped with a tornado this past week killing 24 people.

I want to especially invite you to the Memorial Service for our former secretary of 20 years, Mary Cisnieski at 2 p.m. tomorrow, March 7.

Don’t forget to turn your clocks ahead this Sunday morning as we spring forward with more light in the evening! Also, don’t forget to send in your $36 for our Per Capita.

Our second annual Chili Cookoff was held last Sunday and we had a packed crowd gathered to taste some of the best chili in Key West. The winner this year was Alex Smith.

I want to say thank you to our painting crew for their efforts in sprucing up the Fellowship Hall. Thank you to Woody and Claudette Taylor, Bill Miller, Doug Brown, Randy McDonald, Radek Prochazka and Ed Cunningham.

On Sunday, March 22, we will have a Congregational Meeting called by the Session to elect a Pastor Nominating Committee. Once we elect the PNC, they will receive instructions on how to proceed. The Tropical Florida Presbytery has paved a way for Transitional Pastors to be considered as either the only candidate or one of many candidates. We will keep you up to date on any news going forward but the next step is coming on March 22 following the worship service.

By the way, we have five new confirmation students who will be joining the church on Easter Sunday!

Our Mission Luncheon will take place in the Fellowship Hall after worship on March 29. We will have guest speakers from some of the missions we support. Please plan on joining us for this free lunch and hear how Peace Covenant is making a difference in the world!

This Sunday, Reverend Amy Howe will continue her third lesson on justice looking at Matthew 25:31-46. Jesus said, “if you have done it to the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me.” Do Christians have an “in” with God where justice is concerned? Jesus’ story on the judgment of the nations was a resounding “No!” God’s justice is for those who are poor, hungry, sick, homeless, and imprisoned, no matter who they are. What does this mean for us today? It all begins at 10 a.m. in the Fellowship Hall.

During worship, I will be preaching on the third lesson on What Christians Believe. This week we will take a closer look at the Holy Ghost as the Apostle’s Creed states. What does it mean to believe in the Holy Ghost or Holy Spirit? Why did Jesus send the Holy Spirit to us in the first place? Can we get more of the Holy Spirit as some denominations believe? Come join us at 11 a.m.

Have a safe and blessed weekend.