To mask or not to mask, that is the question. We have become skeptical people. Those who are promoting masks have videos and data that support their position. Anti-maskers, have the same. Culturally, we have lost a collective trust for government, politicians, science, or preachers. It is interesting times for sure. Meanwhile, people are getting sick, latest statistics are alarming. 50% of new Covid cases are those under 30 years of age. The explanation is that youth are congregating in parties, pubs, and social gatherings. It is summer after all. The other interesting stat is that the virus seems to be spreading while indoors. The conflicting information on masks makes it even more difficult to discern what is true. At the outset, the messaging was masks don’t work, now it is everyone use a mask. For me, the use of a mask is difficult. I really feel masks are a disadvantage to effective communication. I like to see someone’s face. We communicate by facial expressions as much or more than just using words. But are masks effective to stopping the spread of Covid?

For me, the use of a mask is difficult. I really feel masks are a disadvantage to effective communication. I like to see someone’s face. We communicate by facial expressions as much or more than just using words. That is the question. All the evidence seems to suggest they are helpful, but not foolproof. The use of masks, especially indoors and where physical distancing is not possible, is good preventative protocol in protecting others of the possibility of contracting the virus.

You might say, I don’t have it, so why should I wear a mask. Good question. The problem is that people may have it but not know it. One can have no or very minor symptoms and be a spreader of the virus unknowingly. So we are suggesting our church attendees wear a mask while attending a worship celebration. We do it out of love, respect and a strong desire not to put anyone in harm’s way.

We feel wearing the mask is an act of love. It shows to those coming to worship that we care, that we respect your person, and that we are proactive and not dismissive. Only 35% of Christians are returning to the house of Worship. Many feel this is because they do not feel safe. At KCF we are doing everything we can to make it a safe place. But we also want to experience the power and love of God. The scripture is clear, that we ought not to forsake gathering together. (Hebrews 10:23-25) Many people have lost the value of this most powerful and essential component to a healthy and vibrant spiritual life. For the month of August we will be doing a series called IT IS BETTER TOGETHER – spiritual life transcended.

While the BC program of social distancing was very effective in flattening the curve, it created extreme social distress; resulting in mental break downs, family violence and abuse, a huge uptake in deaths unrelated to Covid. God never intended for us to live in isolation. We are social spiritual beings, designed to do BETTER TOGETHER. One simple way we can do this is by wearing a mask when social distancing is not possible. The other simple thing to do, is make your way to a worship celebration where they respect your concerns. I would love to hear from you regarding this or any other concerns you may have that might be keeping you from attending a worship celebration of your choice. Contact me at pastorjim@kcfoffice.com.

Jim Reimer, Pastor

August 5, 2020