SERVICE at 11.00am
from Sunday 9 August.
A Message from our Minister – Rev Gill Daniel
Is the church building re-opening for worship?
“This is life Jim, but not as we know it”
Do you remember this line repeated in the 1987 song “Star Trekking” and attributed to Captain Spock? Well I wouldn’t be surprised if that’s how we see life presently! This is Life, but it’s not exactly as we know it! No I am not saying we are surrounded by Klingons on the starboard bow, but as much as we would like to return to normality we cannot! As the song goes on to say, we are all, “boldly going forward because we cannot find reverse!”
Until now we have worshipped with a virtual Church experience using Zoom and YouTube, but we have recognised to our deep sadness that many could not access these services. Similarly we realise that many do not wish to return to Church yet because of shielding and concerns for safety, and we endorse your feelings wholeheartedly if you wish to stay home for a little longer. In no way are we trying to put pressure on you to return to ‘gathered’ Church, but, neither is it fair that we prevent anyone from gathering to worship if they are eager, so, therefore:
From next Sunday – Sunday 9th August at 11am
The Avenue Church will be reopening on a much reduced scale and will link up with the present successful online Zoom Sunday Service (see church services page for details).
Rev Gill will preach at the Church and the sermon will be transmitted live to the Zoom service. It will last no longer than 45 minutes and numbers are limited to 38-42 people. As you can see from the image:
“This is Church but not as we know it”
Rest assured that we will constantly review your feedback alongside our own assessments, so this new way of gathering is not set in stone, it remains fluid in response to capacity, preferences and restrictions.
Meanwhile please do not see this as a pressure to return, but you are indeed very welcome, and those who are interested may wish to consider the facts on the Church Service page in your decision making.
Gill x
In line with Government Guidance we are open for private prayer by appointment – so please do see our Prayer section.
All other activities at The Avenue have also ceased for the time being – that includes KingsCare.
If you know of someone who needs help please let us know. The Church/Circuit Office is remaining open and Sharon is happy to take your calls on 01626 360400.
https://www.facebook.com/TheAvenueNewtonAbbot