Reach Out

Blessings to all:
As we continue through the pandemic, I hope all are well and making the best of our current
situations. As I speak with my fellow Pastors around the state of Indiana, it is clear to me that
many parishioners have chosen not to come back to church. At the same time the amount of
people viewing services on YouTube, websites, or live streaming is also declining.
I thought that after the initial fears of the pandemic had eased, more people would begin
attending services, either in person or virtual, but that is not the case. Historically, people have
increased attendance in times of national emergency or concern. Clearly, we are living in a new
time.
Based on this observation, it is more incumbent upon us to reach out to our brothers and
sisters and assist them in finding a relationship with Jesus Christ. We may not be doing that in
the same manner as we have in the past, but we have all been commanded by Jesus Christ to
do that task.
From Matthew 28:19-20, Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in
the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit and teaching them to obey
everything that I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the
age.
So, do not be afraid to reach out to your brothers and sisters because God is always with us. We
are never alone and allow yourself to be led by God’s Holy Spirit in all we do.
Pastor Ed Armantrout