Dear sisters and brothers in Christ,
I am sorry to share with you the news that, in consultation with the Bishop’s Office, I have decided to cancel Power in the Spirit 2020. As we all continue to respond to the COVID-19 virus, it has become increasingly clear that the risks involved in our physical gathering are simply too great. While there is good reason to believe our current restrictions will no longer be in place come July, it is likely that travel will still be discouraged. I would hate for Power in the Spirit to be a hotspot for the transmission of this dangerous virus.
And yet, I find myself thankful for how Power in the Spirit has been a “hotspot” throughout its many years. Those who attend are never the same after, and they share back home what they have experienced. You who have attended in the past know these life-changing experiences: singing new songs, baking bread, learning about worship or justice or theology, or banging nails into a Habitat for Humanity house. As sad as I am that we won’t be gathering for such experiences in person this year, I hope you know that the Spirit still unites us and there is power in knowing such things. We will make every effort to resume Power in the Spirit in 2021.
I also ask that you stay tuned for news on how the PitS Crew will reach out this summer. The ministry of Power in the Spirit will continue, even in this time of physical distancing. Until then, keep making good decisions to help keep your neighbor safe, and know that you are loved by the One who heals every ill.
Yours in Christ,
The Rev. David C. Drebes
Coordinator, Power in the Spirit
Virginia Synod, ELCA
Pastor, College Lutheran Church
Salem, Virginia
I am sorry to share with you the news that, in consultation with the Bishop’s Office, I have decided to cancel Power in the Spirit 2020. As we all continue to respond to the COVID-19 virus, it has become increasingly clear that the risks involved in our physical gathering are simply too great. While there is good reason to believe our current restrictions will no longer be in place come July, it is likely that travel will still be discouraged. I would hate for Power in the Spirit to be a hotspot for the transmission of this dangerous virus.
And yet, I find myself thankful for how Power in the Spirit has been a “hotspot” throughout its many years. Those who attend are never the same after, and they share back home what they have experienced. You who have attended in the past know these life-changing experiences: singing new songs, baking bread, learning about worship or justice or theology, or banging nails into a Habitat for Humanity house. As sad as I am that we won’t be gathering for such experiences in person this year, I hope you know that the Spirit still unites us and there is power in knowing such things. We will make every effort to resume Power in the Spirit in 2021.
I also ask that you stay tuned for news on how the PitS Crew will reach out this summer. The ministry of Power in the Spirit will continue, even in this time of physical distancing. Until then, keep making good decisions to help keep your neighbor safe, and know that you are loved by the One who heals every ill.
Yours in Christ,
The Rev. David C. Drebes
Coordinator, Power in the Spirit
Virginia Synod, ELCA
Pastor, College Lutheran Church
Salem, Virginia
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