A Message From Pastor Allen...

The “sixty-four” dollar question so many are asking is:  “When will we get to join in worship again.  The simple answer is, “I don’t know” but I can tell you this:  I  was on a phone call with Gov. Stitt last Friday, (along with 321 other pastors from across our state) and he shared his thoughts and hopes for churches meeting once again.    It is obvious that he is anxious for churches to be able to join for worship once again as soon as possible.   However, churches are found in different settings, are many different sizes, and meet in many different types of facilities.  So it is difficult, I’m sure, to come up with one simply plan that fits all.  The CDC, the President, the Governor, State Health officials, and local Mayors have al shared policies and guidelines for “re-opening.”  These guidelines, however, are not entirely consistent and result can be a good deal of confusion. 
 
Recently, Bishop Nunn issued the following statement, “It is our expectation that all United Methodist Churches remain closed and that staff work from home as much as possible.  We do not recommend that any in-person gatherings take place for any reason except for recording worship services and messages of devotion….”  He further stated that, “We will follow closely how Oklahoma moves through this phased reopening and we will communicate any updates to this communication after May 17.” 
 
So, it appears that, regardless of what approach other denominations may take, United Methodist Churches in Oklahoma will remain closed at least through May 17 (and possibly longer).  I would not be totally surprised if we were ask to wait until the first Sunday in June in order to conduct public services of worship once again.  Please know that we are doing our best to serve the congregation and community.