The spring of 2020 brought uncertainties, fear, and loneliness, for many due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Our faithful family from St. Andrews could no longer gather for Sunday service or for fellowship. The little church with a big heart had to temporarily close its doors.
But under the guidance of Rev. Julia, the weekly sermons became videos of Daily Faith that were sent to all daily. Rev. Julia and Matthew worked hard to ensure the communities of faith in DeWinton, Okotoks, Black Diamond, and Turner Valley were still connected. A “buddy” system was set up for the St. Andrew’s patrons to ensure the challenges associated with being isolated as a result of COVID-19 were minimal. Easter service at Okotoks’s Erratic (Big Rock) found Rev. Julia and Matthew joyfully celebrating that Christ had risen with many exclamations of Hallelujah, Hallelujah, Hallelujah!
Our congregants would not let the challenges of COVID-19 get them down! Burrell continued to enjoy his tea and scones even with the spring snows around him, Brian and Shannon’s daughter, Lindsay, on her horse and pretty-in-pink brought smiles to many in Revelstoke, Mel continued to “get caught up” on projects, Eileen sewed to her hearts content making much needed masks, and Shirle delivered some Easter dinners. Mark demonstrated how he delivers packages these days. Our family of St. Andrews is still together in spirit.
