Rev. William Bills
September 8, 2021

Two weeks ago I appealed for help in a melodramatic way. Several people responded in generous and gracious ways by committing their time and skills to leadership and other volunteer opportunities. Thank you. You are a great congregation!

It is still the case that we are rebuilding our volunteer infrastructure after the long layoff. Covid uncertainties abound. I understand reluctance to be with too many people in one place. Nonetheless, ushers, greeters, and coffee hosts are still needed for Sundays. We also need people to run the slide presentation on Sundays. It is really easy. You have to know where the back arrow, the forward arrow, and the space bar are on a keyboard. Then you just have to push them. That part is simple. The hard part is maintaining a laser-like focus for one hour during church. A handful of volunteers would make it possible to set up a rotating schedule so that people can run the show once every several weeks. If you can maintain a laser-like focus for an hour and can push a button, call me. In addition, I would like to have liturgists for the 9:30 a.m. service. This entails making the announcements, leading the opening prayer and call to worship, and reading the scripture for the day. These may seem like small things, but they are important for a meaningful worship service.

Here is a way that you can help with worship without being at worship: You can stay home and watch the livestream on YouTube and text us feedback on the production in real time. It is challenging to mix sound for the sanctuary and the internet broadcast. They are different listening audiences. Those not ready to come back to live services can help from home. If something doesn’t sound right on your TV or computer, you can text that information right to the sound technician. If you can help with real time feedback, give me a call.

Finally, I am going to ask you to consider one more thing. This is a big ask, and I personally have my own reservations about this one. We have had a concession stand at Spartan Stadium for 40 years. It takes 12 people to run the stand during home football games. Many people are reluctant to work for a long time in a small space. Fans on the concourse are also a concern, especially when they come for half-time concessions. If you are vaccinated and are considering this, it might help you to know that all workers will be wearing masks. All fans on the concourse will also be required to wear masks.

I had really hoped that Covid would disappear during the warm summer months, but that hope has faded. I want everyone to be safe and comfortable. I respect your decisions about what to do, when, and with whom. On the other hand, if you are vaccinated and can help, your help will be appreciated. We are not requiring masks in worship, but that could change. We need to be vigilant and compassionate. I encourage you to mask up for worship. Thank you for your prayers and support. It is going to get better. It may take some time, but it will get better.

Rev. William C. Bills

At University United Methodist Church, we affirm that as disciples of Jesus Christ, we are an open and inclusive congregation and welcome all persons into full participation regardless of race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, socioeconomic situation, age, ability, education, background and whether single or partnered.