TWO CHURCHES DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC - Update August 3, 2020

Hello. If you are visiting our website for the first time, welcome.

Over the past several months, our ability to gather for in-person worship has been determined by rising or falling COVID-19 infection rates, Executive Orders issued by Gov. Whitmer, the initial Episcopal Pastoral Directive, and other relevant sources. When the Episcopal Diocese of Western Michigan moved from Phase I (Hiatus) to Phase II (Re-Entry) on July 5, we knew that adjustments might still need to be made based on public-health trends, not only in Kent county, but across the state.

And so in response to Gov. Whitmer’s most recent Executive Orders issued on July 30, the four dioceses in Michigan have updated the Phase II guidelines (effective today) to limit indoor gatherings to no more than ten people. While the Church is not legally obligated to follow this order, or subject to the consequences for violating it, we believe it is our moral and civic responsibility to abide by it.

On July 30, and in response to the same two orders, ELCA Bp. Satterlee wrote: "We all long for a full return to normalcy; however, we must remain vigilant in reducing the spread of this virus. We are still Church Together even when we are apart, and our distance does not impact our ability to share God’s love, peace, and grace with our neighbors."

Beginning on August 9 then, Two Churches will continue to live stream Sunday morning worship from the sanctuary. But since several of those ten allowable people will be needed to make that happen, we're asking everyone else join us for worship on the Two Churches’ FaceBook page –– and not in-person.

These frequent adjustments vex all of us, but we make them as well and as intelligently as we’re able, to care for one another during this pandemic. Please check out our recent newsletters, and perhaps consider subscribing to our newsletter/email notifications for more information on how we are continuing to support our various ministry efforts in our community.

Holy God, who created us for and from love; in this time of uncertainty and social distancing, hold us close in your arms. Comfort those who are afraid, engage those who are bored, give courage to those who are distressed, and warm those who feel the cold touch of loneliness. Breathe in, with, and through us, as we walk through this time into a new future; knowing that you are with us now and await us there. In the name of Christ the Beloved, we pray. Amen.

Welcome to Two Churches

In a spirit of community, Two Churches brings together people from all walks of life. Our congregation believes in justice and equality, love and responsibility, and breaking down denominational tribalism. Here you will find ancient traditions yet modern language, authentic sermons, and open doors. No matter who you are or where you are on your spiritual journey, you are welcome here. Please join us for one of our worship services.

“Together in faith, bringing God’s love to the world.”

What you'll find

Two Churches is a community of Christians who practice an ancient faith through a modern lens. We come together to bring the love of Christ alive in Kentwood.

Worship is both traditional and modern, with scripture readings, a sermon, & prayers. There's the Eucharist (also known as Holy Communion — the presence of Christ in the forms of bread and wine), and you are invited to join us at the Lord's Table. Our 8 AM worship is a spoken service (no music), whereas our 10 AM worship is more “high church”, often with organ music and a mix of traditional hymns and more contemporary songs. At times, we also use piano, guitar & other instruments.

On Wednesdays at 10 AM, we offer a brief Communion or Morning Prayer service (spoken) followed by adult Bible Study. Periodically throughout the year, Sunday morning Bible or book study may also be offered. At any of our services, feel free to wear what’s comfortable. You’ll see a wide range of styles here, from business casual to jeans and shorts. Join us after worship for conversation, and on Sundays after the 10 AM worship for coffee and treats too!

Ministries

Two Churches strives to make a REAL difference in the community around us.
"What happens at Two Churches does not stay at Two Churches!"

Diaper Depot

Low-income families with infants & small children often have to choose between diapers and other necessities such as food or transportation. Diaper Depot helps those families stretch their budgets by offering a free package of diapers, and currently serves an average of 173 infants & children each month.

Feeding Ministries

Much of our community ministry efforts focus on supporting organizations that seek to find solutions to poverty, and more specifically food insecurity. This includes the Green Apple Food Pantry (formerly John Knox Food Pantry), and ACCESS of West Michigan, and our ministries include monthly collections as well as special events.

Other Ministries

Matthew 22:36-40 teaches us that we are to love our neighbors as ourselves, and it is our understanding that this means EVERYONE. We strive to show that love in a tangible way through a variety of programs and volunteer events. Reflecting a key phrase of the ELCA, this is "God's Work. Our Hands."

Who we are

Two Churches is The Church of the Holy Cross (Episcopal) & Ascension Lutheran Church (ELCA), two Kentwood congregations with a long history of collaboration, who came together in 2014 as one Christian community, worshipping and “being church” together in one building. We are inclusive and ecumenical. We are both Lutheran & Episcopal, yet many of our members & friends come from other backgrounds as well, all finding welcome here. Together, we seek to better understand God’s unconditional love for us all, and to share God’s message of love with the community around us.

From the blog

Tzedakah

September 20, 2020

Year A Isaiah 45:21-25 Philippians 2:5-11 Psalm 98 John 12:31-36a May the words of my mouth… O God… speak your Truth… Hurricane Sally hit the gulf coast this week… and there’s a climate crisis that’s in various stages of acknowledgement or denial… wildfires are burning out of control up and down the west coast…...

Denarii and Talents

September 13, 2020

Year A Genesis 50:15-21 Psalm 103:1-13 Romans 14:1-12 Matthew 18:21-35 May the words of my mouth… O God… speak your Truth… There are people I don’t want to forgive… for the things they’ve done… or for the things they’ve said… or for how I’ve felt about what they’ve done or said… not no way…...

Community and Accountability

September 6, 2020

Year A Ezekiel 33:7-11 Psalm 119:33-40 Romans 13:8-14 Matthew 18:15-20 May the words of my mouth… O God… speak your Truth… I once attended a gathering of about three-thousand people… we met in a convention center in Washington DC… in a large auditorium… with stadium seating… sweeping down to a large stage… and at...