We are well into October and it is time to start thinking about Advent and the Nativity season. This year is looking like it will also be affected heavily by the pandemic. Currently, Florida as a whole, the Tampa Bay area, and Pinellas county still have relatively high daily numbers when it comes to new cases. At this point, activities of St Thekla UOC will remain online for the time being and mostly likley into and past Nativity.
Part of this is due to the basic wisdom of staying home and not gathering as much as possible. The spaces that STUOC would use have also decided to only/primarily do virtual meetings. Depending on the situation, numbers, and participation we may plan an outdoor activity/service.
Second, as on Orthodox Christian community, without an ordained priest we are only really able to do reader services. Once it is safe for travel, the plan is for the Bishop to come and ordain Sdn Basil. Given the numbers and trends it is not clear when that will happen.
In the interim a coffee hour/intro to Orthodoxy will be held Sundays at 4pm via Zoom link. This will be geared for new comers with discussion and information that will engage those who have been Orthodox for a while as well. For those who are new and are looking for catechism or to talk with the rector, meetings will be available via zoom.
My prayers and thoughts are with you all.
In Christ,
Sdn Basil
St Thekla Independent Orthodox Church 