January 24, 2021 Worship
In-Person Worship and In-Person Gatherings Paused
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
In-person worship and in-person gatherings at First Presbyterian Church have been paused.
Tuesday, December 1 brought a new single-day record of new COVID-19 cases—over 2,400—and 15 additional deaths here in Mississippi. State health officer Dr. Thomas Dobbs shared that, “our hospitalizations are growing at a rate that is absolutely terrifying. Without a doubt, I think we’re headed into the darkest period of the coronavirus for Mississippi.” Weekly new cases have more than tripled since the first week of September. The trend is clearly not positive. The bulk of infections linked to Thanksgiving gatherings have likely not yet produced identified cases. That means more cases are yet to come in our state, with already dwindling health care resources (Daily Journal). With Christmas holidays looming, these numbers will only increase with more and more gatherings.
Our presbytery, St Andrew Presbytery, has requested that all churches consider suspending in-person gatherings, which includes in-person worship. The Episcopal Diocese of Mississippi suspended in-person worship and all other in-person gatherings. The Mississippi UMC Conference strongly encouraged all Methodist churches to discontinue in-person worship until numbers have improved substantially, beginning Sunday, December 6. Churches can decide if they will follow these suggestions or not.
The session of First Presbyterian Church met Thursday, December 3, and unanimously approved pausing in-person worship and ALL in-person gatherings at the church facility. Our on-line worship service will continue. We will monitor the new case totals each week and pray that we can resume in-person services soon.
This has been a very difficult decision, especially during this season of Advent. May God continue to lead us from darkness into light. While we are presently not able to gather together in worship, the work of the church continues. A highly respected ministerial leader in Mississippi recently said, “It is paramount to our commitment as people of faith to do no harm by not only staying abreast of, but also observing Mississippi Department of Health guidance.”
May the Light of the World be our guide,
Rev. Dr. Olin McBride
First Presbyterian Church Tupelo strives to witness through worship, servanthood, and sharing.
During Covid-19 we have lots of people in need, and our community can help. Below are just a few opportunities for us to extend the love of Christ during these difficult days.
CLICK HERE FOR OUR ONLINE WORSHIP SERVICE
There will be no worship service in the Sanctuary on Sundays BUTyou will be able to join us in each Sunday at 10 AM on ourYouTube channel via the link above!
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We welcome all to First Presbyterian for worship, service, and fellowship.
If you are a new member or visiting for the first time, please check this link for helpful information.
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