The news from Las Vegas this week reminds us that there is no way to be 100% safe in our world, however much we try.  That being said, it is important to take “common sense” precautions.  As our new Lake House nears completion, St. Michael has become a “campus.”  In order to provide a safer environment for our children AND ourselves, we have taken steps to secure our building, particularly on weekdays.
 
The doors on the southern face of our classroom/meeting room wings will be locked all the time, except around times of worship or special occasion.  The “upper” parking lot will become the main one used for the new building.  Other doors will be open during the day, but our policy will be to lock all but our main entrance doors after 4:30 PM.  Better lighting outside and more cameras inside and outside are also being added with the construction of our new building.
 
Please be patient and do not hesitate to give us constructive input as we live with this new pattern of safety.  There WILL be adjustments as we experience these policies.  But remember that they are being put in place for the safety of us all.  We pray they are never needed to make a difference, but meanwhile our care for each other demanded by the Gospel compels us to take these measures.
 
Now, one last thought!  As the Bible reminds us, those with mischief in mind do not like the light or like to be seen.  Our heightened level of security offers us the opportunity to be very deliberate in the great gift God has given us as a church—the gift of hospitality.  We will be establishing a ministry of “greeters” for both buildings.  These people will be able to provide a warm welcome and help for those using our campus.  They will also provide a level of security simply by being there. 
 
P.S.
If you might be interested in the greeters ministry, contact Steve Anderson.