This has been a very busy time for me and the congregation as we get ready for our Church Conference which will be in-person on Tuesday 10/5 at 7pm.  I am also in the process of attending the “usual” fall meetings:  District Clergy Gathering, District Committee on Ordained Ministry, my annual One on One with the District Superintendent.  I am also participating in the class Rev. Weihing is teaching through the Academy of Artful Leadership.   Busy times!  In addition to this we have started a book study of The Forgotten Creed.  I meet online with the folks from Plattsburgh UMC on Wednesday afternoons and then I “re-create” the structure and discussion for our in-person gathering here in Alplaus.

Newly re-started is the continuation of online and in-person gathering.  Sundays, we still gather in the sanctuary (masked) and I am posting an online version Sunday evening to both Facebook and directly to the website.  The videos include most of the worship service with varying levels of sound.  I include hymns when possible and I read our joys and concerns aloud as well.  I have heard that we may be ready to start adding the occasional “special music” as well - I will keep you posted!   If you are feeling uncertain about how to reach me or these videos, please call or text.  I will do my very best to help you connect in the way that works best for you and your comfort level!
Our building is in use for meetings as well.  Inside, please be sure to sign in and to keep your mask on.  This procedure is for all inside meetings: Boy Scouts, Church Leadership, Book Study and Knitting.
 
Blessings!
Pastor Kristi
 

  
     This Corona Virus (COVID - 19) has not gone away.  The Delta variant has proven to be aggressive and contagious.  We are still meeting and worshiping in-person.  We are masking inside - regardless of vaccination status.  We have put a pause on coffee hours.  We are still planning to have in-person book study (see other article about "The Forgotten Creed" by Stephen J. Patterson).  Please be aware of local cases and outbreaks.  At time of writing, Schenectady County has reported 95new cases in 6 day.  7% of persons tested have received positive results and 615 persons are in quarantine or isolation.  I am not a scientist and I am not a medical professional;  I encourage you to speak to folks who are, who are on the front lines of treating folks and/or vaccinating folks.  Ask questions and find out how to best protect yourself, your family, your community from further spread of this virus.  I am a person of faith and still I wear a seat belt, have health insurance and a savings account.  I do not expect God to provide for all of my immediate needs on the spot; I  endeavor to take precautions and care for myself, my family and my community.

Blessings!
Pastor Kristi