Living on Mission During a Pandemic

The Covid-19 pandemic has deeply influenced us all, and faith communities are not outside its reach. As the potential for increased spread of coronavirus began, Saint Luke Lutheran Church of Devon, Pennsylvania was committed to continue living out their mission to know, love and serve Christ in a community where all are welcome, no exceptions. While the congregation has not been gathering within the church walls for weekly worship in an effort to keep all safe and healthy, other great things are still happening within their building and through them in the surrounding community. They are as active as ever, although it has looked differently during this unique season. Despite practicing social distancing, the church has found many ways to continue to serve their community.

As the pandemic began an immediate need was brought to the attention of Saint Luke. While the need for blood donations has continued during the pandemic, blood drives all over the county were being cancelled due to insufficient space to safely donate and socially distance. Thankfully, Saint Luke has been able to keep their doors open to the American Red Cross. Office administrator, Allen Benner-Smith explained, “Saint Luke is in at least its third decade of hosting blood drives for the American Red Cross. When schools, community centers and other churches shut down in March, hundreds of drives were cancelled. Since blood products have a short storage life, hospitals experienced a shortage very shortly thereafter. The donations that have come in from seven blood drives since mid-March have helped more than one thousand people.” The large facility located at the corner of North Valley Forge Road and Conestoga Road in Devon was able to be used for numerous blood drives during the pandemic so far, and if called upon they will gladly open their doors again. Benner-Smith went on to say, “We haven’t been able to do everything since this corner of Pennsylvania locked down, but Saint Luke is doing whatever it can.”

In the spirit of desiring to help its community regardless of circumstances, the congregation also recently launched a new effort, Sending Smiles. Sending Smiles was a successful card and letter writing campaign created with the intention of spreading cheer around the community and brightening people’s days. The congregation recognized that many people are feeling isolated, lonely, sad, and anxious during the current pandemic. Together as a church, they set a goal to send 250 cards or letters to encourage people during this difficult time of social distancing. Many recipients were senior citizens, graduates, local non-profit staff, medical personnel, and first responders. People of all ages participated in the efforts. Children were encouraged to participate by writing, drawing pictures, or coloring a special printable stationary provided by the church. Pastor Matt Staniz shared, “When the pandemic arrived, the first thing people missed about Saint Luke was the warmth of our community and the many smiles shared in person. I am inspired to see the whole congregation come together to send smiles to people who need it right now; everybody who is missing the joy of being together has inspired a wonderful variety of people to send smiles.” Together, the church was able to send over 275 cards and letters, an effort that hopefully added some positivity during a challenging time.

Whether it is blood drives or letter writing campaigns, it is clear that Saint Luke Lutheran Church is not going to let Coronavirus get in the way of them caring for their community. They continue to gather each Sunday virtually for worship and additionally offer online interactive events to maintain social connection. Virtually or in person, Saint Luke wants their message to be heard- they are here for the community, whatever comes.

To learn more about Saint Luke, visit www.saintlukedevon.org.