BOZEMAN — The drive-in model is making a major comeback in 2020 and is being adopted by a church in Bozeman.
For the Hope Lutheran Church in Bozeman, it’s all about keeping that strong sense of community, while keeping each other safe during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“People arrive for worship and they’re met by an usher who gives them a bulletin which pretty much has the text of the service of the day. And then they’re just told to park anywhere that pretty much doesn’t have a cone,” said Pastor Stephen Schmidt
Churchgoers receive a pre-sealed communion set that includes a wafer and grape juice and are told to tune in to the FM station broadcasting the sermon.
Pastor Steve Schmidt says it’s tough not congregating inside together, but this is a great alternative for those wanting to connect offline and in person.
“We believe that the situation isn’t safe enough yet for us to return to inside worship as much as we want to do that,” said Pastor Stephen Schmidt.
“We’re able to sing out loud together without endangering anyone,” said churchgoer Kathy Weaver, who has been attending HopeLutheran Church services for over 20 years.
“I wasn’t sure what to expect when we first started doing it. But I’ve been pleasantly surprised.I really like to be able to see everybody even if they’re just a little ways, but to know that they’re here,” said Weaver.
“To walk these days by yourself is very difficult. We’re not created as to be individuals locked away in our homes,” said Pastor Stephen Schmidt.
