Grace and peace to you from Christ our Comforter and Redeemer,
All our lives have been impacted by the threat of COVID-19 here and around the world. I am so impressed by the amazing ways that churches are responding to these challenging times with generosity, innovation and creativity, finding new ways of staying connected and serving their neighbors with renewed vigor. Thank you for all of the ways you have had to quickly adapt and change to continue important ministry!
As the social service arm of the ELCA in Minnesota, Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota is also adapting and changing in innovative new ways to deliver essential support statewide. Wherever possible, telephone, online and video support is already underway to serve Minnesotans. As you know, some of our essential work requires a physical presence that includes cooks and delivery drivers, direct support professionals supporting people with disabilities and employees caring for youth in shelters. In all services, health and safety are top priorities. Right now, we need your help!
Face masks are a critical need. These masks help protect against sneezes and coughs and increase our ability to safeguard people we support, employees, volunteers and our greater community.
Please invite your congregation to use their skills to sew face masks. Invite quilters and church groups to work from the comfort of their own homes to make a big impact on their neighbors.
Access the pattern and specifications here, along with instructions to drop off or mail masks so that we can distribute them quickly and efficiently where the need is greatest.
At LSS, we are committed to the care and well-being of Minnesotans and implementing safety measures to help safeguard people we support, our employees, volunteers and greater community. When we work together, we will improve critically-important health outcomes in our state. Thank you for all of the ways you work with us to care for the neighbor. In Christ, The Rev. Julie Wright Director of Church Partnership and Volunteerism Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota