Lockdown, Covid and Vaccination
These three words are part of our everyday conversation. Although Lockdown regulations have eased, they are still impacting our everyday life situation inconveniently. Some argue that this way of life is the normal we need to get used to. But will physical distancing, washing hands and wearing masks be the way we will continue to live?
Fear. Fear for infection; fear for isolation; fear for …., can that be called normal?
Anxiety. Is it normal to feel anxious and uncomfortable with having people around? Will our relationships and fellowship grow deep enough to withstand the storms of time? Trust relationships are needed to sustain and safeguard communities.
What if another wave of infections comes and if it is even harsher than previously? Will we overcome?
Let us not give up nor lose hope but do what the psalmist does:
“Let all that I am wait quietly before God, for my hope is in him.” Psalm 62:5 (NLT)
Then there is the matter of vaccination. This topic is debated on many platforms. There are arguments for and against, both medically and ethically. I encourage you to inform yourself. Some information is available on the Cape Church webpage (https:// www.lutherancape.org.za). Decide for yourself and respect the others for their decision. Let us care for one another and be church with the people around us.
Synod 2021
Synod will take place from 13-15 August 2021 at St. Martini Lutheran Church, 240 Long Street, Cape Town. In its planning Church Council is considering different options, including a virtual synod meeting.
The theme will be: “Life, Faith, Hope. – Here! Now! Getting from disorientation to reorientation”. A reflection on the book of Psalms, as well as inputs on dealing with trauma, will empower and encourage us for life here and now. We have hope in Him who has overcome death. Jesus Christ is Lord. In Him we trust.
The congregations are reminded that motions with motivation and documentation have to be submitted to Church Council by the latest on 13 June 2021.
At the synod the Bishop and Deputy to the Bishop have to be elected.
Please keep the synod preparations and the delegates in your prayers.
Congregations and Pastors
Death Notices
Pastor (em) Gerhard Plüddemann passed away on 3 April 2021. A memorial service was celebrated on 21 April 2021 at St. Martini.
He faithfully served in various congregations for many years. May his loved ones be com- forted and filled with hope and peace! May he rest in peace!
Pastor (em) Oziel de Oliveira passed away on 5 April 2021 in Brazil. A memorial service was celebrated on 10 April 2021 at St. Crucis. May he rest in peace! May his loved ones be comforted and filled with the hope of the resurrection of the dead!
Bishop’s Office
Mr. Günther von Fintel has been appointed as secretary to the bishop’s office. He will work on a part-time basis for a limited number of hours per month. He will mainly work from his home office. You can contact him on office@elcsacape.co.za or 082 3648 504. We thank him for serving us in this way.
