REPRINTED FROM Iowa United Methodist Conference Website…

 
In light of worsening Covid-19 positivity rates, the crisis faced by our healthcare systems, and out of an abundance of caution and love for our neighbor, Bishop Laurie Haller and the Appointive Cabinet is directing clergy and churches to cease in-person indoor worship and church activities through and including January 10, 2021.

The Appointive Cabinet met this morning to discuss current realities facing Iowa and how best to lead the Conference in the midst of these catastrophic numbers and in response to the genuine fatigue felt by so many across Iowa. 

“We need to remember our neighbor during this time and John Wesley’s rule of Do No Harm,” said Bishop Laurie Haller. “This directive comes out of love for our neighbor.”

The Re-entry Team, Extended Cabinet and Communications Team will meet and discuss ways that the Iowa Conference can guide churches in resourcing technology and supporting shifts in ministry and planning from Advent, Christmas, and the Epiphany season. This will include providing ways to partner together across the Iowa Conference to provide virtual worship, small group opportunities, and resourcing local churches with pastoral care, stewardship planning and connecting with communities during this difficult time.

“One of the most comforting truths for the Christian is the ever-present reality that God is with us,” said Rev. Dr. Lanette Plambeck of the Re-entry Team. “God’s presence is one of the greatest gifts God gives God’s people. God is personally near. Even now — when we are in these pandemic times — this is our truth and where we place our hope.”
 
More information will be released later this week regarding this directive.

This information is being reassessed weekly.