Our six downtown congregations in Paris have historically observed Holy Week together—in an ecumenical way. Pastors of First Baptist (FBC), First Christian (FCC) First Presbyterian (FPC) First United Methodist (FUMC) Grace Episcopal (GEC) and Quinn Chapel AME (QCAME) have led brief noon devotionals followed by lunch to which the entire community has been invited. Plans were well underway for this to happen again, before social distancing.
Caution demands reducing the risk of spreading the COVID-19 virus in our community. As a result, everyone is invited to worship together online! From wherever you have access to a computer or mobile phone with Internet access, log-on at noon during Holy Week to the Downtown Paris Association Facebook page. From Monday through Good Friday (April 6-10), you will have opportunities to virtually attend the uplifting messages of our downtown pastors.
Share the 2020 Lenten journey of remembering pivotal stories of faith formation all Christians share. Jesus made his last week’s walk to the cross essentially alone—as each of us, today, must deal with the consequences of isolation. We can feel very much quarantined in our splintered fears for our future. Worship can remind us that “God’s got even this!,” enthusing us to be more intentional about finding loving ways to mutually care for each other and the greater world around us.
During this time of international emergency, people of faith have a critical role to play. Everyone benefits when loving people decide to sacrificially work together beyond themselves.
Broadcasting on Facebook Live from the sanctuary of Paris First United Methodist Church, convener Reverend Joy Weathersbee will welcome:
Dr. Trent Bullock (FBC), Monday, April 6th;
Rev. Caren Teichmann (FCC), Tuesday, April 7th;
Dr. John Dandridge (QCAMEC) Wednesday, April 8th;
Dr. Bob Valentine (FPC) Thursday, April 9th;
Dr. Pam Evans, (GEC) Friday, April 10th.