Hi, Neighbors!

Our neighborhoods are filled with friendly, socially well-equipped Lakeviewers! As I promised last month, I will share your ideas for gathering, with safety, in this time of social isolation. If you have ideas, please share them with me so that I can include them in future NEWS Flashes about the Hi, Neighbor Project!

A caller from on of our Neighborhood Groups reported to me that social distancing meetings can be held at Rio Vista Park and Parkway and Thunderbird Avenue. There are a lot of tables for social distancing and as long as everyone wears masks, it is considered to be a safe way to gather a group, large or small Monday through Friday. Weekend days are crowded and planning a gathering on those days would not be wise at this time. A “Meet and Greet Group” could be invited now that our weather is warming up. No food, just bring your masks and see who lives near you. Tables are shaded, and there are restrooms nearby. This is not far from church and close to our neighborhoods with handicapped parking available.

A few women from another group south of the church met outdoors at a restaurant with outdoor food service. Another time, they ordered food which they picked up and shared together in a local outdoor gathering space. They are planning regular monthly gatherings of the few people interested in visiting in person as long as masks are worn and they meet outdoors.

Hope these two groups give you ideas for ways to come together and meet old friends and new ones, as well. In the meantime, we have extra devotional books for Lent. They have been stamped with the church’s name and address. We are asking that people pick them up and distribute them to neighbors, friends and family members. Let’s spread a little Lakeview UMC love around. They are a gift worth sharing.

 Our Father God who gave us his only Son also gave us an empty cross!

God Bless You! Pastor Linda De Atley