Hello Friends,
What a year it has been! I don’t think anyone could’ve imagined how COVID-19 would have affected us. Over this past year, we remember how fragile our lives really are. We have lost many of our members, family and friends in the community. Every day I remember them and their families during my prayers. I am thankful for their memories because it has gotten me through these tough times. I know many of you have told me the memories are getting you through these difficult times. But the good news that we have is COVID-19 has strengthened our relationship with others. We now know that we aren’t alone in whatever comes our way; we have each other and most importantly God. We also know that we need to cherish each other! That is something I will never take for granted again. My prayers will continue to be with all of you as we move ahead.
As the COVID-19 numbers are decreasing here in South Carolina and Providence community, the leadership has given the green light to go back into our Sanctuary for worship. This will take place on Easter Sunday. We will have a Sunrise service at 7:00 AM and a regular Easter Service at 11AM. I, for one, am thankful for this opportunity to again worship in our beautiful Sanctuary. We will continue to be inside as long as the numbers stay where they are. So, we will only have one service Easter and beyond in the Sanctuary. I will miss the outdoor service under a great picnic shed and maybe we can hold an outdoor service every now and then! The radio broadcast will still be available for those who don’t feel comfortable worshiping inside. We continue to ask that you wear a facemask while in worship. We do have some mask available as well as plenty hand sanitizer. We will also be socially distanced in our Sanctuary. That means “your” pew might not be open. I ask that if your pew is not open, please find another pew.
With worship going back to normal, we will begin April 18th with Sunday School. I know that we have gotten away from Sunday School during this time, but I urge everyone to attend Sunday School. It is a vital part of our Christian faith. It is necessary for us to have a strong Christian education so when things get rough, we have a strong foundation of what we have learned in Sunday School. It is also a time where we have honest conversations with people in our church family. Sunday School is just one way we can strengthen our relationship with God and others.
One last thing, I am very thankful for Mike and Deedee Kullenberg with their help with the outdoor service. They have helped every Sunday set up the sound system and pass out bulletins. We have battled the weather (rain, cold and heat) to provide a meaningful worship experience. If you see them, please thank them for their service! Again, I am honored to be your minister at Providence. We have gone through so much together. I thank God every day that I get to walk alongside you in your Christian journey. If there is anything I can do, please don’t hesitate to ask!
Blessings and see you soon,
Rev. Justin Ritter