Included here are communications from the bishop and rector:
April 29, 2020
Episcopal Diocese of Utah
Special Communication
A Pastoral Letter from The Rt. Rev. Scott B. Hayashi
Dear Brothers and Sisters,
We are Easter People in a chaotic time. Instead of being driven and tossed by the latest bit of news, we hold fast to God who is above all, even as God holds fast to us. With Christ, and in Christ, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, we are united, and therefore can transcend the present time that is marked by fear, division and uncertainty.
Being Christian has often meant being at odds with the prevailing culture. Dietrich Bonhoeffer, the German theologian, pastor and anti-Nazi protestor who wrote The Cost of Discipleship, was one of the most powerful examples of this. What he faced is far more extreme than us.
Presently, there is a cultural push to reopen our lives. This is an understandable desire to return to the way we were a short two months ago. I confess to you that I want that very much. While this is true, I cannot let that desire override expert medical and scientific research and guidance. I believe that God is love and life, and that my decisions for our life as Episcopalians in our diocese should be grounded in that love and life. Even if it runs counter to what is developing in our state and nation.
The clergy have responded magnificently to this chaotic and uncertain time. There is more church going on now than there was two months ago. It is not happening at our buildings with public attendance for worship, or for meetings or studies. Rather it has come to your living rooms, kitchens, bedrooms, patios and anywhere you are via streaming and recorded services. The prayers, readings, sermons and teaching have reached far beyond those who would normally attend at our congregations. I see this as one of the most profound manifestations of incarnational ministry. Jesus came to us and met us where we are. God did not say you must come here or there to meet me. Jesus came to us. Our clergy, by providing the services, reflections, story times, Bible Studies and more through the internet have literally come to you with the good news wherever and whenever you are. As I wrote to you in my last pastoral letter, God is indeed doing a new thing and it is easy to discern it in the work and witness of all of you, the people and clergy of The Episcopal Diocese of Utah.
As marvelous as this is, it does not fulfill our desire and need to be physically together. I had hoped that by May, the COVID-19 virus would have reached its peak and started declining across our diocese. Unfortunately, this is not the case. Nor can we be certain that we can avoid another spike in cases by relaxing our restrictions. Therefore, the present pattern of providing worship virtually shall continue at least until the end of May. It has become clear that it is impossible to forecast a date to safely resume full in person worship. The virus does not answer to us. We answer to the virus. How quickly or slowly the virus will recede largely depends on how we behave. Reopening while the virus is still spreading only gives it the opportunity to continue its upward trajectory. The Diocese of Utah will contribute to mitigating the virus, not spreading it. As your bishop, I
find it is important we have a clear road map for the way forward, even without being able to predict a definite date to safely resume in-person worship and outreach. This pastoral letter is that road map.
One of things we have learned is that each state is different in regard to the spread of the virus. Further, within each diocese, there are differences from one locale to another. What this indicates is that the best course for us to follow is to have a process that takes into consideration these differences. That means that one part of our diocese could transition to in-person gatherings sooner than another part. When the time comes when
we will all be able to safely gather, then we will have a joyous all diocese celebration. I look forward to that.
I look at our meeting the challenge of the pandemic in four seasons:
Season One: Stay at Home - Mitigation of the Spread of Covid-19. We have been in
this season since the middle of March. As I stated above, we shall continue in our
present pattern of worship and behavior to help mitigate the spread of the virus at least
until the end of May. We do this not only for ourselves, we do it for the sake of our entire
community, state, nation and world.
Season Two: Continued Mitigation. When there is a sustained reduction in cases for
at least 14 days, then we will transition to in-person worship, work and outreach. (This
may happen in one location of our diocese before or later than another.) This includes:
Security advises that we “[r]ecognize that the desire to get back to normal as quickly as
possible is a common reaction in the catastrophic context, and it is an impulse worth
restraining.”
We cannot ignore that superspreading events have been linked to religious services
and choir practices. We still do not know much about COVID-19, but one of the most
consistent findings is that the disease carries a much higher fatality rate among older
adults. According to data from the CDC, 91 percent of all deaths related to the virus
have occurred among people 55 and older.
Season Three: Lifting of Physical Distancing with Protection. The health markers
we will look for moving into Season Three include:
Season Four: Application of Learnings and Future Preparations. All of us have been learning lessons during this time that will strengthen us to meet our future better prepared for ministry, mission and the possibility of another pandemic. We are not seeking a return to pre-pandemic Diocese of Utah. With the spiritual, emotional, functional and practical lessons that we are learning, we can build a new church together. We are learning how to be better followers of Jesus and The Way of Love.
We are making progress upon this already by developing:
A Call to Action
We have seen that this pandemic is taking a heavier toll on communities of color, the poor and the homeless. This is not unexpected. In all difficult situations, even mildly challenging ones, these friends, neighbors and church goers are the ones who suffer the most. I urge us to help raise them up because they are equally God’s children as anyone else and because by leaving them to be exposed and getting the COVID-19 virus or any future pandemic health threat, the threat to all us is increased.
We have also seen that many of the workers who receive the lowest wages and least benefits like food workers, meat packers, delivery workers, and others are now “essential”. They are literally risking their lives for the benefit of the larger community. They deserve the thanks and respect of the larger community and increased wages and benefits that befits their essential status.
We have also seen the benefit of not having so many people driving on our roads. The air is cleaner around the world. People are able to breathe more easily; incidence of respiratory distress is much lower. If there was ever any doubt that it is human behavior that causes the degradation of our environment, that doubt is now erased. I urge us to continue our efforts to address climate change personally and advocate for reducing carbon emissions and the use of fossil fuels.
We must become advocates for a U.S. health system that is prepared to face new pandemics. This means pressing our elected leaders to fund research and development initiatives, expand public-health and health care infrastructure and workforce, and to implement clear governance structures to execute strong preparedness plans.
We will continue to travel through this time and beyond. The road ahead is much longer
than we first hoped it would be. However, I cannot think of better traveling companions
than you to be together with as we journey into the future.
Faithfully,
+Scott B. Hayashi
Bishop of The Episcopal Diocese of Utah
Episcopal Diocese of Utah
Special Communication
A Pastoral Letter from The Rt. Rev. Scott B. Hayashi
Dear Brothers and Sisters,
We are Easter People in a chaotic time. Instead of being driven and tossed by the latest bit of news, we hold fast to God who is above all, even as God holds fast to us. With Christ, and in Christ, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, we are united, and therefore can transcend the present time that is marked by fear, division and uncertainty.
Being Christian has often meant being at odds with the prevailing culture. Dietrich Bonhoeffer, the German theologian, pastor and anti-Nazi protestor who wrote The Cost of Discipleship, was one of the most powerful examples of this. What he faced is far more extreme than us.
Presently, there is a cultural push to reopen our lives. This is an understandable desire to return to the way we were a short two months ago. I confess to you that I want that very much. While this is true, I cannot let that desire override expert medical and scientific research and guidance. I believe that God is love and life, and that my decisions for our life as Episcopalians in our diocese should be grounded in that love and life. Even if it runs counter to what is developing in our state and nation.
The clergy have responded magnificently to this chaotic and uncertain time. There is more church going on now than there was two months ago. It is not happening at our buildings with public attendance for worship, or for meetings or studies. Rather it has come to your living rooms, kitchens, bedrooms, patios and anywhere you are via streaming and recorded services. The prayers, readings, sermons and teaching have reached far beyond those who would normally attend at our congregations. I see this as one of the most profound manifestations of incarnational ministry. Jesus came to us and met us where we are. God did not say you must come here or there to meet me. Jesus came to us. Our clergy, by providing the services, reflections, story times, Bible Studies and more through the internet have literally come to you with the good news wherever and whenever you are. As I wrote to you in my last pastoral letter, God is indeed doing a new thing and it is easy to discern it in the work and witness of all of you, the people and clergy of The Episcopal Diocese of Utah.
As marvelous as this is, it does not fulfill our desire and need to be physically together. I had hoped that by May, the COVID-19 virus would have reached its peak and started declining across our diocese. Unfortunately, this is not the case. Nor can we be certain that we can avoid another spike in cases by relaxing our restrictions. Therefore, the present pattern of providing worship virtually shall continue at least until the end of May. It has become clear that it is impossible to forecast a date to safely resume full in person worship. The virus does not answer to us. We answer to the virus. How quickly or slowly the virus will recede largely depends on how we behave. Reopening while the virus is still spreading only gives it the opportunity to continue its upward trajectory. The Diocese of Utah will contribute to mitigating the virus, not spreading it. As your bishop, I
find it is important we have a clear road map for the way forward, even without being able to predict a definite date to safely resume in-person worship and outreach. This pastoral letter is that road map.
One of things we have learned is that each state is different in regard to the spread of the virus. Further, within each diocese, there are differences from one locale to another. What this indicates is that the best course for us to follow is to have a process that takes into consideration these differences. That means that one part of our diocese could transition to in-person gatherings sooner than another part. When the time comes when
we will all be able to safely gather, then we will have a joyous all diocese celebration. I look forward to that.
I look at our meeting the challenge of the pandemic in four seasons:
- Season One: Stay at Home - Mitigation of the Spread of Covid-19
- Season Two: Continued Mitigation
- Season Three: Lifting of Physical Distancing with Protection
- Season Four: Application of Learnings and Future Preparations
Season One: Stay at Home - Mitigation of the Spread of Covid-19. We have been in
this season since the middle of March. As I stated above, we shall continue in our
present pattern of worship and behavior to help mitigate the spread of the virus at least
until the end of May. We do this not only for ourselves, we do it for the sake of our entire
community, state, nation and world.
Season Two: Continued Mitigation. When there is a sustained reduction in cases for
at least 14 days, then we will transition to in-person worship, work and outreach. (This
may happen in one location of our diocese before or later than another.) This includes:
- Church offices may open in spaces large enough for physical distancing.
- Smaller churches may worship in spaces large enough for physical distancing.
- Scale-able worship 10, 50, 100 – in spaces large enough for physical distancing. Face masks will be worn, households will sit together with physical distancing of six feet from other households or individuals. Disinfecting of hard surfaces shall be done following each meeting or worship service. Common cup shall not be used for Holy Communion.
- Signs will be prominently displayed that people who are manifesting COVID-19 symptoms should not enter the building.
- Continued virtual Morning Prayer and other offerings.
- In-person pastoral visits resume to low risk parishioners.
- Practice health safety protocols - wearing masks, physical distancing.
- Outside groups that use the building will be required to follow physical distancing and health and safety protocols.
- Coordinate all plans with the Bishop’s Office
- Outbreaks in the virus will mean a return to Season One practices until there is a reduction in cases for at least 14 days.
Security advises that we “[r]ecognize that the desire to get back to normal as quickly as
possible is a common reaction in the catastrophic context, and it is an impulse worth
restraining.”
We cannot ignore that superspreading events have been linked to religious services
and choir practices. We still do not know much about COVID-19, but one of the most
consistent findings is that the disease carries a much higher fatality rate among older
adults. According to data from the CDC, 91 percent of all deaths related to the virus
have occurred among people 55 and older.
Season Three: Lifting of Physical Distancing with Protection. The health markers
we will look for moving into Season Three include:
- Negative community spread of the virus
- Mass vaccination
- Mass testing for virus and immunity
- Lifting physical distancing
- Church offices opened
- Worship in churches
- Continued virtual option provided
- Continued virtual meeting option provided
- Holy Eucharist may resume under new guidelines
- Return to all outreach ministries
- Coordinate all plans with the Bishop’s Office
- Outbreaks in virus will mean returning to previous protocols for 14 days.
Season Four: Application of Learnings and Future Preparations. All of us have been learning lessons during this time that will strengthen us to meet our future better prepared for ministry, mission and the possibility of another pandemic. We are not seeking a return to pre-pandemic Diocese of Utah. With the spiritual, emotional, functional and practical lessons that we are learning, we can build a new church together. We are learning how to be better followers of Jesus and The Way of Love.
We are making progress upon this already by developing:
- Platforms for livestreaming and uploading our worship services.
- Platforms for gathering online.
- Meetings and programs that are accessible online in real-time.
- Be more quickly responsive and adapting to a changing world.
- Better sense of interdependence and interconnectedness.
A Call to Action
We have seen that this pandemic is taking a heavier toll on communities of color, the poor and the homeless. This is not unexpected. In all difficult situations, even mildly challenging ones, these friends, neighbors and church goers are the ones who suffer the most. I urge us to help raise them up because they are equally God’s children as anyone else and because by leaving them to be exposed and getting the COVID-19 virus or any future pandemic health threat, the threat to all us is increased.
We have also seen that many of the workers who receive the lowest wages and least benefits like food workers, meat packers, delivery workers, and others are now “essential”. They are literally risking their lives for the benefit of the larger community. They deserve the thanks and respect of the larger community and increased wages and benefits that befits their essential status.
We have also seen the benefit of not having so many people driving on our roads. The air is cleaner around the world. People are able to breathe more easily; incidence of respiratory distress is much lower. If there was ever any doubt that it is human behavior that causes the degradation of our environment, that doubt is now erased. I urge us to continue our efforts to address climate change personally and advocate for reducing carbon emissions and the use of fossil fuels.
We must become advocates for a U.S. health system that is prepared to face new pandemics. This means pressing our elected leaders to fund research and development initiatives, expand public-health and health care infrastructure and workforce, and to implement clear governance structures to execute strong preparedness plans.
We will continue to travel through this time and beyond. The road ahead is much longer
than we first hoped it would be. However, I cannot think of better traveling companions
than you to be together with as we journey into the future.
Faithfully,
+Scott B. Hayashi
Bishop of The Episcopal Diocese of Utah
From the Bishop: Conditions for Continued Worship
August 3, 2021
My Dear Brothers and Sisters,
The highly contagious Delta Variant has been sweeping across the United States. The vast majority of newly infected people who have been hospitalized are those who have not been vaccinated. Those who have been vaccinated have been spared hospitalization for the most part. This is good news, however, the Delta Variant has infected some vaccinated people as well. All people who have been infected with the Delta Variant carry a heavy virus load and can easily spread the virus. Because of this, the CDC has revised its previously relaxed recommendations for people who have been vaccinated. All people, regardless of vaccination status, are now advised to prac-tice social distancing, to wear masks when indoors in public places and to regularly wash hands.
The Utah and Arizona Legislatures and Governors have forbade mask mandates being imposed upon schools. When classes resume, the wearing of masks will be voluntary. Children under the age of twelve cannot yet receive the C-19 vaccine. Only 25% of youth between 12 - 15 have been fully vaccinated and only 37% of youth 16 - 17 are fully vaccinated. Experts warn that this does not bode well for us in Utah and Arizona. We Episcopalians made a promise, a covenant, when we were baptized. Because we believe in God, we promised to “seek and serve Christ in all persons loving our neigh-bors as ourselves.” To this end, we are called dedicate ourselves to the safety and well being of all people. This includes doing all that we can to limit the spread of COVID 19.
What does this mean for us?
The protocols for in-person worship that I issued in May shall remain the same.
FOR OUTDOOR WORSHIP:
FOR INDOOR WORSHIP:
In addition to the above, I ask that all meetings, church and outside groups, that are held indoors at the church observe the CDC guidance regarding masks and social distancing.
I encourage all congregations to offer their locations as a site for vaccine clinics in order that we provide easy access to receive a COVID 19 vaccination. Thank you for all that you have been doing and continue to do to keep yourselves and each other safe.
Faithfully,
+Scott B. Hayashi
Bishop of The Episcopal Diocese of Utah
My Dear Brothers and Sisters,
The highly contagious Delta Variant has been sweeping across the United States. The vast majority of newly infected people who have been hospitalized are those who have not been vaccinated. Those who have been vaccinated have been spared hospitalization for the most part. This is good news, however, the Delta Variant has infected some vaccinated people as well. All people who have been infected with the Delta Variant carry a heavy virus load and can easily spread the virus. Because of this, the CDC has revised its previously relaxed recommendations for people who have been vaccinated. All people, regardless of vaccination status, are now advised to prac-tice social distancing, to wear masks when indoors in public places and to regularly wash hands.
The Utah and Arizona Legislatures and Governors have forbade mask mandates being imposed upon schools. When classes resume, the wearing of masks will be voluntary. Children under the age of twelve cannot yet receive the C-19 vaccine. Only 25% of youth between 12 - 15 have been fully vaccinated and only 37% of youth 16 - 17 are fully vaccinated. Experts warn that this does not bode well for us in Utah and Arizona. We Episcopalians made a promise, a covenant, when we were baptized. Because we believe in God, we promised to “seek and serve Christ in all persons loving our neigh-bors as ourselves.” To this end, we are called dedicate ourselves to the safety and well being of all people. This includes doing all that we can to limit the spread of COVID 19.
What does this mean for us?
The protocols for in-person worship that I issued in May shall remain the same.
FOR OUTDOOR WORSHIP:
- People may gather without masks or social distancing. People should not, however, be packed tightly together.
- Masks shall be available for people who desire them.
- Congregational singing with masks is allowed.
- No physical greeting of clergy or fellow worshipers when the service concludes or in the Passing of the Peace.
- The use of the Common Cup for Communion is prohibited.
- Hand sanitizers shall be readily available for use.
- Coffee hour and receptions may be held outdoors.
FOR INDOOR WORSHIP:
- Worship attendance limited to the number of households your worship space can accommodate maintaining a six foot distance from others. Doors and windows should be open, weather permitting.
- Signs will be prominently displayed that people who are manifesting COVID-19. Symptoms should not enter the building.
- Hand sanitizer at entrance and in pews, used upon arrival
- Bulletins available on separate stand, perhaps with the Offering Plate (which will not be circulated or presented). • Continued virtual Morning Prayer and other offerings.
- Practice health safety protocols — wearing masks, physical distancing.
- Sanitary masks will be worn by all persons when inside our buildings for worship.
- Strive to keep services no longer than 60 minutes.
- Congregational singing is allowed.
- Choir Members should be vaccinated and wear N95 or KN95 masks when performing.
- No physical Passing of the Peace or physical greeting of clergy or fellow worshipers when the service concludes..
- If Eucharist is to be celebrated, hygienic plans for distribution must be carefully thought through — the use of the Common Cup is prohibited.
- Coffee hour or receptions following the service shall be permitted if served outdoors.
- Clergy in charge and vestries/bishop’s committees are permitted to implement stricter measures.
- Churches are encouraged to livestream their services for those who are ill or uncomfortable with attending in person during this resurgent pandemic.
In addition to the above, I ask that all meetings, church and outside groups, that are held indoors at the church observe the CDC guidance regarding masks and social distancing.
I encourage all congregations to offer their locations as a site for vaccine clinics in order that we provide easy access to receive a COVID 19 vaccination. Thank you for all that you have been doing and continue to do to keep yourselves and each other safe.
Faithfully,
+Scott B. Hayashi
Bishop of The Episcopal Diocese of Utah
From the Bishop: Conditions for Continued Worship
August 3, 2021
My Dear Brothers and Sisters,
The highly contagious Delta Variant has been sweeping across the United States. The vast majority of newly infected people who have been hospitalized are those who have not been vaccinated. Those who have been vaccinated have been spared hospitalization for the most part. This is good news, however, the Delta Variant has infected some vaccinated people as well. All people who have been infected with the Delta Variant carry a heavy virus load and can easily spread the virus. Because of this, the CDC has revised its previously relaxed recommendations for people who have been vaccinated. All people, regardless of vaccination status, are now advised to prac-tice social distancing, to wear masks when indoors in public places and to regularly wash hands.
The Utah and Arizona Legislatures and Governors have forbade mask mandates being imposed upon schools. When classes resume, the wearing of masks will be voluntary. Children under the age of twelve cannot yet receive the C-19 vaccine. Only 25% of youth between 12 - 15 have been fully vaccinated and only 37% of youth 16 - 17 are fully vaccinated. Experts warn that this does not bode well for us in Utah and Arizona.
We Episcopalians made a promise, a covenant, when we were baptized. Because we believe in God, we promised to “seek and serve Christ in all persons loving our neigh-bors as ourselves.” To this end, we are called dedicate ourselves to the safety and well being of all people. This includes doing all that we can to limit the spread of COVID 19.
What does this mean for us?
The protocols for in-person worship that I issued in May shall remain the same.
FOR OUTDOOR WORSHIP:
FOR INDOOR WORSHIP:
I encourage all congregations to offer their locations as a site for vaccine clinics in order that we provide easy access to receive a COVID 19 vaccination.
Thank you for all that you have been doing and continue to do to keep yourselves and each other safe.
Faithfully,
+Scott B. Hayashi
Bishop of The Episcopal Diocese of Utah
My Dear Brothers and Sisters,
The highly contagious Delta Variant has been sweeping across the United States. The vast majority of newly infected people who have been hospitalized are those who have not been vaccinated. Those who have been vaccinated have been spared hospitalization for the most part. This is good news, however, the Delta Variant has infected some vaccinated people as well. All people who have been infected with the Delta Variant carry a heavy virus load and can easily spread the virus. Because of this, the CDC has revised its previously relaxed recommendations for people who have been vaccinated. All people, regardless of vaccination status, are now advised to prac-tice social distancing, to wear masks when indoors in public places and to regularly wash hands.
The Utah and Arizona Legislatures and Governors have forbade mask mandates being imposed upon schools. When classes resume, the wearing of masks will be voluntary. Children under the age of twelve cannot yet receive the C-19 vaccine. Only 25% of youth between 12 - 15 have been fully vaccinated and only 37% of youth 16 - 17 are fully vaccinated. Experts warn that this does not bode well for us in Utah and Arizona.
We Episcopalians made a promise, a covenant, when we were baptized. Because we believe in God, we promised to “seek and serve Christ in all persons loving our neigh-bors as ourselves.” To this end, we are called dedicate ourselves to the safety and well being of all people. This includes doing all that we can to limit the spread of COVID 19.
What does this mean for us?
The protocols for in-person worship that I issued in May shall remain the same.
FOR OUTDOOR WORSHIP:
- People may gather without masks or social distancing. People should not, however, be packed tightly together.
- Masks shall be available for people who desire them.
- Congregational singing with masks is allowed.
- No physical greeting of clergy or fellow worshipers when the service concludes or in the Passing of the Peace.
- The use of the Common Cup for Communion is prohibited.
- Hand sanitizers shall be readily available for use.
- Coffee hour and receptions may be held outdoors.
FOR INDOOR WORSHIP:
- Worship attendance limited to the number of households your worship space can accommodate maintaining a six foot distance from others. Doors and windows should be open, weather permitting.
- Signs will be prominently displayed that people who are manifesting COVID-19. Symptoms should not enter the building.
- Hand sanitizer at entrance and in pews, used upon arrival
- Bulletins available on separate stand, perhaps with the Offering Plate (which will not be circulated or presented).
- Continued virtual Morning Prayer and other offerings.
- Practice health safety protocols — wearing masks, physical distancing.
- Sanitary masks will be worn by all persons when inside our buildings for worship.
- Strive to keep services no longer than 60 minutes.
- Congregational singing is allowed.
- Choir Members should be vaccinated and wear N95 or KN95 masks when performing.
- No physical Passing of the Peace or physical greeting of clergy or fellow worshipers when the service concludes..
- If Eucharist is to be celebrated, hygienic plans for distribution must be carefully thought through — the use of the Common Cup is prohibited.
- Coffee hour or receptions following the service shall be permitted if served outdoors.
- Clergy in charge and vestries/bishop’s committees are permitted to implement stricter measures.
- Churches are encouraged to livestream their services for those who are ill or uncomfortable with attending in person during this resurgent pandemic.
I encourage all congregations to offer their locations as a site for vaccine clinics in order that we provide easy access to receive a COVID 19 vaccination.
Thank you for all that you have been doing and continue to do to keep yourselves and each other safe.
Faithfully,
+Scott B. Hayashi
Bishop of The Episcopal Diocese of Utah
Conditions for Continued Worship
June 23rd, 2020
The clergy and wardens have been keeping a close eye on the numbers and thoughts of State Epidemiologist Angela Dunn regarding the coronavirus, and we believe it is in the best interest of our congregation to suspend services this week. We had hoped to resume services this Sunday and had done a couple of trial runs with church leadership to practice safe procedures. However, the news this morning is concerning. In fact, Dr. Dunn is considering a state recommendation to retreat to Orange status on July 1.
The most serious numbers cited by Dr. Dunn are that testing is not increasing greatly while positive cases are, and that hospitalizations are rising to a point of concern. We are providing articles from today's Salt Lake Tribune and Deseret News that both summarize these numbers and quote Dr. Dunn's forceful words.
Salt Lake Tribune
Deseret News
At this point, we are cancelling just this Sunday's services and watching closely to see if Dr. Dunn's warnings have an effect. She is recommending the state make a decision by July 1, and we will do so by that date also.
In the meantime, the clergy and wardens are continuing to explore and put into place procedures that will make it safer once we are able to gather for worship again.
Vanessa+ and Isabel+ will continue to record Morning Prayer and a children's story ,and they will be posted on Facebook and the church's website, goodshepherdogden.org. We hope you will continue to tune in.
Please let us know if you have any prayer needs/requests.
Keep safe, keep praying, and may God bless you.
The clergy and wardens have been keeping a close eye on the numbers and thoughts of State Epidemiologist Angela Dunn regarding the coronavirus, and we believe it is in the best interest of our congregation to suspend services this week. We had hoped to resume services this Sunday and had done a couple of trial runs with church leadership to practice safe procedures. However, the news this morning is concerning. In fact, Dr. Dunn is considering a state recommendation to retreat to Orange status on July 1.
The most serious numbers cited by Dr. Dunn are that testing is not increasing greatly while positive cases are, and that hospitalizations are rising to a point of concern. We are providing articles from today's Salt Lake Tribune and Deseret News that both summarize these numbers and quote Dr. Dunn's forceful words.
Salt Lake Tribune
Deseret News
At this point, we are cancelling just this Sunday's services and watching closely to see if Dr. Dunn's warnings have an effect. She is recommending the state make a decision by July 1, and we will do so by that date also.
In the meantime, the clergy and wardens are continuing to explore and put into place procedures that will make it safer once we are able to gather for worship again.
Vanessa+ and Isabel+ will continue to record Morning Prayer and a children's story ,and they will be posted on Facebook and the church's website, goodshepherdogden.org. We hope you will continue to tune in.
Please let us know if you have any prayer needs/requests.
Keep safe, keep praying, and may God bless you.
Episcopal Diocese of Utah
Special Communication
A Pastoral Letter from The Rt. Rev. Scott B. Hayashi
March 27, 2020
Dear Sisters and Brothers,
We have all been affected by the ongoing spread of COVID-19 (C-19). Because things are developing at a very rapid pace, it is difficult to make any definite statements about when we will resume what we call normal. We are living in a ‘new’ world.
In the midst of this new time, I am proud and happy to tell you that the clergy of our diocese have been faithful and hard working. They have been faithful to their call to serve God and to make God's love known in word and in deed. They have been learning new ways of connecting people together to bring spiritual hope and vitality to our people and the larger community throughout the week. They have been assisted by many laypeople of our congregations who have selflessly given their talents to this important and holy work. We have always said that church is more than just Sundays. With their labor, they have been making that statement a lived reality for many people. Thank you to them and thank you to all of you for your endurance, generosity and support of them, to me and to one another. During this time, God is indeed doing a new thing and it is easy to discern it in the work and witness of all of you, the people and clergy of The Episcopal Diocese of Utah.
The purpose of this pastoral letter is to communicate to you what I have discerned as the road ahead. The time frame of this is based on Governor Gary Herbert’s, “Utah Leads Together, Utah’s plan for a health and economic recovery. (The plan has been attached to this letter.)
At present and until May 1, public worship services will remain suspended. In place of these services, our congregations are offering an abundance of online worship services. They have also streamed and emailed a host of other opportunities for spiritual reflection and prayer.
After May 1 (or later depending on the status of C-19, and when public schools are open again) in-person worship will be offered. However, we expect that medical experts will ask that we continue to physically (socially) distance ourselves and keep our groups to ten or fewer persons. This will require that a system of scheduling and signing up for the worship services. Because of the smaller size of the services, the schedule for services will no doubt extend beyond Sundays. The rector or vicar will determine the best schedule of worship for his or her congregation. The reason for these protocols is that while we may, by the month of May, have slowed the spread of C-19, it will not be eradicated, nor will there be a vaccine available. The risk of spreading the virus, therefore will remain present with us. Holy Communion will be celebrated but the Common Cup will not be used. However, the option to have a common chalice will be given as long as that chalice is a pouring chalice from which the wine may be poured into individual vessels for each person.
When will we be able to resume life as ‘normal’? No one can really say, I hope that it will be sooner rather than later. But, as Anthony Fauci has said, “…you don’t make the timeline, the virus makes the timeline. You’ve got to respond, in what you see happen.” Please note that what I have written here may be revised in response to what develops with C-19 in the diocese.
For the congregations that receive diocesan grants, those funds will continue to be distributed without interruption. And to all people, regardless of whether your congregation receives financial assistance or not, please continue faithfully in your pledge! Though the in-person worship and events have been suspended for this time, we must continue to support the clergy and staff (as well as the ministries that support those in need such as food banks and meal programs). They have been working many long and hard hours to keep us all connected together with one another and God. We must also remember those members who may have lost their jobs, had their hours reduced or whose business has been seriously diminished. The discretionary accounts of the clergy may be called upon more than ever before to give assistance.
The Easter story tells us that it was experienced first by a few women and then by the disciples who shared it with others. There were no buildings filled with people joyfully singing Easter hymns and celebrating together the Holy Eucharist. In the quiet of that first Easter, the hearts of the women and disciples were filled with wonder and amazement of the new thing that God had done in resurrecting Jesus from the dead.
As a celebration and witness to the Resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus, I ask that we join together with our brothers and sisters of other dioceses who will be proclaiming our common faith through the ringing of bells. On April 12th, at 10:00 a.m., I ask that every church that has a bell to ring it for five minutes in solidarity and joy as Christians united in one Lord, one faith and one baptism. In your own home, apartment or condominium join in and ring a bell or otherwise make a joyful noise. Let the whole diocese and the communities in which we are located, hear the sound of joy and celebration of our proclamation of our risen Lord.
We will continue to travel together through this time. Care for one another, pray without ceasing. Call, text and email one another. Check on those who are shut in or lonely. You remain steadfast in my heart and prayers.
Faithfully,
+Scott B. Hayashi
Link to Governor Gary Herbert's Report:
Utah Leads Together | Utah’s plan for a health and economic recovery
Special Communication
A Pastoral Letter from The Rt. Rev. Scott B. Hayashi
March 27, 2020
Dear Sisters and Brothers,
We have all been affected by the ongoing spread of COVID-19 (C-19). Because things are developing at a very rapid pace, it is difficult to make any definite statements about when we will resume what we call normal. We are living in a ‘new’ world.
In the midst of this new time, I am proud and happy to tell you that the clergy of our diocese have been faithful and hard working. They have been faithful to their call to serve God and to make God's love known in word and in deed. They have been learning new ways of connecting people together to bring spiritual hope and vitality to our people and the larger community throughout the week. They have been assisted by many laypeople of our congregations who have selflessly given their talents to this important and holy work. We have always said that church is more than just Sundays. With their labor, they have been making that statement a lived reality for many people. Thank you to them and thank you to all of you for your endurance, generosity and support of them, to me and to one another. During this time, God is indeed doing a new thing and it is easy to discern it in the work and witness of all of you, the people and clergy of The Episcopal Diocese of Utah.
The purpose of this pastoral letter is to communicate to you what I have discerned as the road ahead. The time frame of this is based on Governor Gary Herbert’s, “Utah Leads Together, Utah’s plan for a health and economic recovery. (The plan has been attached to this letter.)
At present and until May 1, public worship services will remain suspended. In place of these services, our congregations are offering an abundance of online worship services. They have also streamed and emailed a host of other opportunities for spiritual reflection and prayer.
After May 1 (or later depending on the status of C-19, and when public schools are open again) in-person worship will be offered. However, we expect that medical experts will ask that we continue to physically (socially) distance ourselves and keep our groups to ten or fewer persons. This will require that a system of scheduling and signing up for the worship services. Because of the smaller size of the services, the schedule for services will no doubt extend beyond Sundays. The rector or vicar will determine the best schedule of worship for his or her congregation. The reason for these protocols is that while we may, by the month of May, have slowed the spread of C-19, it will not be eradicated, nor will there be a vaccine available. The risk of spreading the virus, therefore will remain present with us. Holy Communion will be celebrated but the Common Cup will not be used. However, the option to have a common chalice will be given as long as that chalice is a pouring chalice from which the wine may be poured into individual vessels for each person.
When will we be able to resume life as ‘normal’? No one can really say, I hope that it will be sooner rather than later. But, as Anthony Fauci has said, “…you don’t make the timeline, the virus makes the timeline. You’ve got to respond, in what you see happen.” Please note that what I have written here may be revised in response to what develops with C-19 in the diocese.
For the congregations that receive diocesan grants, those funds will continue to be distributed without interruption. And to all people, regardless of whether your congregation receives financial assistance or not, please continue faithfully in your pledge! Though the in-person worship and events have been suspended for this time, we must continue to support the clergy and staff (as well as the ministries that support those in need such as food banks and meal programs). They have been working many long and hard hours to keep us all connected together with one another and God. We must also remember those members who may have lost their jobs, had their hours reduced or whose business has been seriously diminished. The discretionary accounts of the clergy may be called upon more than ever before to give assistance.
The Easter story tells us that it was experienced first by a few women and then by the disciples who shared it with others. There were no buildings filled with people joyfully singing Easter hymns and celebrating together the Holy Eucharist. In the quiet of that first Easter, the hearts of the women and disciples were filled with wonder and amazement of the new thing that God had done in resurrecting Jesus from the dead.
As a celebration and witness to the Resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus, I ask that we join together with our brothers and sisters of other dioceses who will be proclaiming our common faith through the ringing of bells. On April 12th, at 10:00 a.m., I ask that every church that has a bell to ring it for five minutes in solidarity and joy as Christians united in one Lord, one faith and one baptism. In your own home, apartment or condominium join in and ring a bell or otherwise make a joyful noise. Let the whole diocese and the communities in which we are located, hear the sound of joy and celebration of our proclamation of our risen Lord.
We will continue to travel together through this time. Care for one another, pray without ceasing. Call, text and email one another. Check on those who are shut in or lonely. You remain steadfast in my heart and prayers.
Faithfully,
+Scott B. Hayashi
Link to Governor Gary Herbert's Report:
Utah Leads Together | Utah’s plan for a health and economic recovery