Thursday 29 October 2020 Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ, As you will be aware the cases of Covid-19 are rising very sharply in Switzerland. All gatherings over 15 people (including churches) are prohibited by Canton Bern (since last Friday). Taking into consideration the complexities of booking services for only 15 people, and also taking advice from medical professionals, the Standing Committee of the Church Council have decided that the best thing is to hold no 'live' services (either on Sundays or during the week) at present, at least for this month. We will keep the situation continually under review. This decision is the safest one as there are several people in our community who have been in touch with those who have tested positive or who have tested positive themselves. It is also good to have a simple and consistent policy. I am sad that we will not be meeting in person over the next few weeks, but I am very grateful for those who put together our online services. The service for this Sunday, 1st November, All Saints Day, will be on the website here by Saturday. As part of this service we will have opportunity to light a candle to remember before God our loved ones who have died. So you might want to have a candle and matches to hand as you listen to the service. Our various online activities continue: Online Quiz, tomorrow, Friday 30th October, 7pm: The last online quiz was great fun! It is not too late to register your team (up to 6 people) or join another team. You can register up to 6pm tomorrow here. Lectio Divina, Thursday 10.30 - 11.15am: this is an opportunity to meditate on a short scripture passage in silence and then to share our thoughts together. If you would like to know more about this please do ask me. Bible Studies, 7-8.15pm, 2nd and 4th Tuesdays. The next Bible study will be on Tuesday 10th November. These meetings have been very stimulating and encouraging. Again everyone is welcome. Concern for Nigeria
A letter from the Bishops about the situation in Nigeria (and including the prayer below) is attached. A Prayer for Nigeria
In the midst of all that is happening at the moment, locally, nationally and across the world, we need to maintain our hope and pray in trust to God. A Prayer of Hope
A Blessing of Hope
With love in Christ,
|