1. Regathering Update!

We are beyond excited to invite you back to campus in safe, incremental ways! While we currently remain in Phase 1 of our Regathering Plan, we have revised it to accommodate both large and small group gatherings.

First, we welcome you to use the campus to meet for adult small groups, Bible studies, and ministry-oriented gatherings. At this time during Phase 1, we are opening the campus for adult gatherings only.We have identified two large group spaces:

• the Sanctuary — for groups of 100 or less, and
• the Chapel — for groups of 50 or less, in the evening.

We have also identified about a dozen rooms appropriate for small groups of 10 or less for adult gatherings. You can reserve rooms by contacting our receptionist, Sandra Babcock. She will be happy to work with you to identify an available time and room for groups of adults.

As a reminder, we are using two metrics that can be found on the Texas Medical Center website HERE that guide our plan for in-person worship services. The metrics include:

• a 14-day decline in the number of new cases
• and a 10% or lower positivity rate of testing

We are tentatively planning to resume in-person worship on September 13, provided these targets are satisfied. More details about this will be featured in future Grace Weekly emails.

For more information about returning to our campus, please click HERE for a detailed look at our phased plan for regathering.

Finally, our Grace family has not been immune to the virus. As we plan and prepare to regather for in-person worship we ask you to join together to prayer over the impact of COVID-19 on those in our community, nation, and around the world.

2. Outdoor Worship on the Lawn

Sunday, August 23 at 6:30-7:30 p.m. Grace Athletic Fields

We have planned a joyous evening of worship music and prayer for this Sunday.

BRING: You will need to bring water, picnic blankets and/or camp chairs to sit on (church is not providing any seating), and your facial coverings for moving about.

PHYSICAL DISTANCING PROTOCOLS: Facial coverings are required when you are unable to physically distance or while moving around (but not while seated for worship with your family).

HERE is a link with song links so you can sing along with the worship band!

3. Welcome Rev. Mark Brown, Guest Preacher

Sunday, August 23, 10 a.m. Virtual Service

Sunday, August 23, we are thrilled to welcome Rev. Mark Brown, CEO of WHAM (West Houston Assistance Ministries) as our guest preacher!

Here are some fun facts about Mark:

• Originally from England, but growing up in Australia, Mark has lived in the States for nearly a decade and has been a U.S. Citizen for four years.
• Married to Christi and has many beautiful children
• An ordained Episcopal Priest, licensed in the Diocese of Texas
• Sheriff's Deputy with Harris County Sheriff's Office, currently assigned to Patrol
• Chaplain (1st Lieutenant) with the Texas State Guard
• Passionate about helping those in crisis, particularly those caught in poverty

Where are the Rest of the Announcements?

Remember that as we have streamlined the look of Grace Weekly, you can still find all the news you need. Gather entries feature information about worship services, giving opportunities, and leadership news. Connect entries focus on ministry groups and events for Adults, Children, and Students. Finally, Bless entries offer ways for members to serve our communities. Simply click on each button below to read all the respective Gather, Connect, and Bless announcements.