Report of the Interim Pastor May 2020

Opening Prayers

Loving God, be with us and guide us during this time of transition and discernment. Fill our leaders with your wisdom. Keep us mindful of the work you would have us do. Lead us and guide us, O God, to be about the work of establishing your reign here on earth as the search for a new pastor continues. Bless all who have taken on extra responsibilities and fill them with a sense of your love and presence. We pray in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord.

Grant us, Lord God, a vision of your world as your love would have it:
a world where the weak are protected, and none go hungry or poor;
a world where the riches of creation are shared, and everyone can enjoy them;
a world where different races and cultures live in harmony and mutual respect;
a world where peace is built with justice, and justice is guided by love.
Give us the inspiration and courage to build it, through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Shelter-In Place Continues

The shelter-in-place order that both San Francisco and California mandated mid-March continued through May. Worship resources are provided to all members and regular visitors. A weekly Zoom meeting occurs on Wednesday evenings.

How Do I Spend My Time?

Everything I wrote in April still applies – various meetings via Zoom (Conference, Synod, Interfaith Council, State Faith Leaders, District Supervisor, etc), phone calls, and so forth. The only change is that toward the end of May I began spending more time at the church office, have begun some visitation, and have been more focused on the details of preparing for gathering again in worship. The most significant event was presiding over the funeral and burial of Marilyn Anne Biagini (one of 10 in the room) at Cypress Lawn Cemetery on May 1.

What Will Worship Look Like When We Return?

That will be our primary topic for discussion, with these goals in mind: the health and safety of our members and community, the witness we offer in our planning, and maintaining and honoring our worship styles and traditions as we are able. Some details will be mandated by San Francisco. Others will be open to our interpretations and wishes.

Respectfully Submitted,

Lyle J Beckman