In-Person Worship
By now, you should be aware that by recommendation of the Reopening Task Force, and agreement by the Deacons, we are allowing in-person worship to resume this Sunday. A letter has been sent to church members advising of the protocols under which our worship gatherings will be conducted.
I want to express my gratitude to the Task Force and Deacons for their measured consideration of our approach to this pandemic. Our goal has been to continue our worship and ministry as effectively as possible under trying conditions. A major part of that has been to ensure the health of our congregants. In observing how other churches have responded, I feel we have done quite well. Your continued financial support has been most helpful, and as we progress through the coming days we will, I am confident, come together in a renewed spirit of unity and purpose. Will you join me in praying to that end?
Linda Marks
Linda’s sudden and unexpected death has caught us all off-guard. Though she was often away from her church, doing the work of MIFA in uniting the Memphis religious community, her love for Christ and her church family never wavered. A lifelong FBC member, she simply had a spirit and a way that endeared us to her. Last weekend, I picked up a letter written some months ago by Sally Heinz, MIFA’s President, and CEO, thanking our church for our financial support of this vital organization. Next to Sally’s signature, Linda wrote, “I (Heart) FBC!). Linda.” I think I’ll keep that letter, or perhaps share it with our history room.
As I write this, we are still uncertain of arrangements due to the small size of Linda’s family, and the distance separating them. A private graveside service will be conducted next week. However, discussions have taken place, and plans will be made, for a public memorial service at a later date when it is safe for us to do so. In communicating by email with her brother Denton about this service, I said to him, “All her friends would join me in saying she deserves it (a public service). She was truly one of the most selfless persons I have ever known.”
Randy
