While we are still enjoying our summer (with plenty of heat and humidity at the moment), we have to start looking forward to the fall and perhaps even further into early winter. Time is very fleeting, and as my mother would say – we have to “bruge den kostbare tid” and make good use of it, as I’m sure we have all been trying to do under the challenging Covid conditions. With most of us now being “double vaxed” and still being cautious and careful, we have been able to meet for some events like small get-togethers with family and friends, and in particular Sunday services. There has been much joy and happiness on the faces of those who have been able to do so.

However, we are not out of the woods yet. The fourth wave is slowly gaining strength thanks mostly to the un-vaccinated. Because of that, the limit on indoor gathering remains very small – still too small for us to make any meaningful plans for the usual major events we normally have at the church this time of year. Thankfully we can still have our Sunday services as long as we respect the basic Covid health rules of masking, social distancing, etc. This includes Children’s Hour where we would like to see children being active in the church once more. Most of our activity groups are small enough to fit within the current restraints, so they will slowly restart their activities in September. That is very good news and we encourage the members of these groups to participate and regain the benefits of being with friends and enjoying the ability to gather and continue with their lives as before. Plans for a Welcome Back Fest, and even our Thanksgiving Dinner will have to be put on hold for now. We are not even sure if we can have our usual in-person Fall Bazaar. Luckily, we now have experience with the “on-line” imports and sandwiches format, and that we will do. 

The other major event happening to our church is of course the sanctuary upgrade. It has been a long and difficult challenge to get this project moving. Not only have we dealt with the challenge of finalizing the plans, we are now into the phase of getting the contractors going so we can complete this project and start enjoying the benefits of a beautifully refreshed sanctuary. Our hope was to have this completed by the end of October, but due to continual Covid restrictions which caused delays with labour and materials, this deadline is still pending. Once the project gets into full swing, it will be easier to estimate when the completion date will be. In the meantime, we will have to make do with having services in the Royal Hall or even in the outdoors if weather cooperates. We ask for your patience and understanding to help us get through this.

Speaking of the sanctuary upgrade, we are still looking for support to reach our fundraising goals for both the general upgrade and artwork funds. The fundraising has been challenging while we were not able to come to the church, but we hope that will change in September when we get back to a more regular schedule.  Up to now we have received a total of $5,500 split between the two funds. In addition, we are also doing a Thanksgiving Lottery with special prizes donated by Danish companies. I know it seems that we always have our hand out for your support, but we are a charity and that’s what a charity does. Don’t forget that we are fully self-funded with no help from Denmark. These are important causes for our church, and we hope you will find a way to support them. All donations, whether large or small, are needed and will be gratefully accepted.

Remember – this is your church, and it is your participation that keeps it going. Despite various challenges, our church is still alive and well thanks to you. As we move forward together, we can make a difference and enjoy the benefits of these efforts. Have an enjoyable late summer and early fall. 

Sune Overgaard