Under New Management

[Jesus said] no one can enter a strong man’s house and plunder his goods, unless he first binds the strong man. Then indeed he may plunder his house. Mark 3:27 ESV

And Jesus called them to him and said to them, “You know that those who are considered rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. Mark 10:42 ESV

Dear Members and Friends of Trinity Downtown:

If aliens were to ever arrive on planet Earth, it surely wouldn’t take them very long to discern that humankind is somehow flawed. They would observe our wars, gang murders, drug addition, pornography and theft. If they were able to log into social media, they would sadly get a huge dose of our anger and division. 

While the aliens would also see selfless acts of love and mercy and parents loving their children, they would still probably conclude that, on earth, might makes right, and he that has the gold makes the rules. The galactic equivalent of Disney would be forced to write-off Earth as an exciting new tourist destination.

Jesus came and “pitched His tent” among us to fulfill God’s plan to redeem us. In our baptism, He calls us into new ownership. No longer are we bound to obey our sinful nature and are powerless in the face of an evil and demanding task-master. We are under New Management.

Of course, we inherit some habits, fears and inertia from the time spent under our previous landlord, and live in a world where many are still enthralled to evil’s bondage.

We continue to be deeply thankful for the God-inspired work of our medical professional who developed and are distributing the COVID vaccines, and who continue to care for those afflicted with this disease. We are constantly reviewing our COVID-related safety protocols so that we’re in line with current government regulations and the evolving scientific guidelines. At present, here are what you can expect this weekend when you arrive:

• Masks are now optional for everyone regardless of vaccination status
• RSVPs are no longer required, and you may enter the campus using whatever door you choose. Be sure to sign in at one of our “check-in” stations to register your worship attendance. We’ll have volunteers available to assist you with navigating the check-in process.
• Open seating for worship in the Sanctuary except for the back pews on the pulpit side. We are reserving the back pews on the pulpit side for those who prefer the option of social-distancing;
• Now that we have open seating, please continue to be alert and considerate of those around you who may be hesitant to sit close, shake hands or hug
• Prepackaged snacks and coffee will be available in the Gathering Space on Sunday morning after the worship service
• Open seating for Satellite worship with chairs spaced out. The chairs will continue to be placed as they have been over the last several months to accommodate those who prefer social distancing.

Come celebrate the joys of being under New Management with us this weekend; come reconnect with Jesus and your church community. Let the joy of Lord flood your heart and refresh your soul so you can share His love and peace with everyone!