Wilshire staying with one worship service; Sunday School moves to 9:45 start on Aug. 21.
In a change of plans based on congregational feedback and with the support of the deacons, Wilshire will continue to offer a single Sunday worship service, at 11 a.m., for the foreseeable future. The church moved to a one-service schedule this summer as a way to “Come Together” during our pastoral transition at a time of year when attendance is typically lighter. The intention was to return to two services on Promotion Sunday, Aug. 21.
In an email to the congregation this week, Wilshire’s associate pastors and Deacon Chair Debbie Meripolski wrote: “What we didn’t expect was the immense amount of positive feedback that has come from a variety of congregation members. You’ve remarked on the high energy, the strong congregational singing and the blessing of being able to meet and connect with other members.”
One benefit of not adding back the early service is that the Sunday School period can be lengthened. Starting Aug. 21, Sunday School will officially start at 9:45 a.m.
The email continued: “Like many churches in America, the realities of the pandemic have forced us to re-examine who we are now. Historically, the number of worship services held on Sunday mornings at Wilshire has ebbed and flowed as needed. Ultimately, we believe that continuing forward with one service will be a gift to our next pastor and will continue to allow us to be together during this important time of transition.”
Sunday Fellowship Lunches will end on Aug. 14 as planned but will happen periodically in the future.