online service instructions (zoom)

Zoom - General Information

If you are unfamiliar with zoom, it is a computer platform that allows for remote meetings.  The “host” has the ability to “share screen.”  When you sign on, the host will admit you to the “room.”  There are two things to enable once you are admitted to the room.  You will want to enable your sound and video (there are icons at the bottom of the zoom page, you just need to click on them).  Please be aware that only one person can speak at a time on zoom. You may also want to click on the “chat” icon.  This will open a side box where you can type a conversation.  Once the service has started, the host will mute all participants, with the exception of the leaders speaking.  We encourage you to participate at home and speak the response lines, but it will not be heard online.

This is a video explanation that Luke (Ehlert) located. If you are unfamiliar with zoom, this may be helpful.

Video Explanation of Zoom

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9w3Y_9FLgc4

Zoom Sign-On, via Computer

In order to join a zoom meeting, you will need to have the Zoom program downloaded on your computer.  It should take only a few minutes.  You should only have to install it one time.  In order to install it, just click on the link to our worship service below.  It will instruct you how to install the program in order to get to the meeting.  Again, this will only need to be done once.  Once the program is downloaded, you will only need to click on the meeting link in the future.

Each week, we will open the “room” at 9:15.  We encourage you to sign on between 9:15 and 9:25 so that we can start service at 9:30.  During this time, you will be able to see everyone and chat - though only one person can talk out loud at a time.  There is a “chat” icon at the bottom of the zoom page.  If you click on that, you will be able to type a conversation to the whole group or privately between people (please be aware that the host can see all conversations - even conversations that are “private.” I did not know this the first time I used zoom for class - so I just want to give you a heads up.

At 9:30, the host will mute all participants to start the worship service.  Again, you are encouraged to participate at home, but please be aware that your voice will not be heard online.

Our reoccurring zoom link is:

Join Zoom Meeting

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84279715370

Zoom Sign-On, via Telephone

One of the benefits of using Zoom is that it allows individuals who do not have a computer to “call in” and listen to the service.  This is the most inclusive format we could find.  Obviously, you will not be able to see the service, but it does allow you to participate and hear what is going on.

In order to join us via phone, please call the meeting phone number and be prepared to provide the meeting id number.  When you call, there will be a voice that will prompt you to enter the meeting ID number.  At that point, please enter the meeting ID number press the pound sign.  It will then say that you are waiting for a host to admit you into the meeting.  At that point, the host will connect the call and allow you to hear the service.  Please mute your phone once the service starts.  (We are pretty sure the host is able to mute you along with the others participating via the computer, but Luke isn’t positive.  So please mute your phone once the service starts.  Thank you!)

If you would like a copy of the bulletin ahead of time, please let me know.  I will do my best to get it to you before service each week. (Those watching online will see the bulletin on the share screen, but those using the phone will be unable to see that feature).

Meeting ID: 842 7971 5370

Dial by your location

+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)

Practice Zoom Time

We recognize and honor that starting something new can be frustrating and a bit overwhelming.  We have decided to host a “practice” meeting on Saturday, Nov. 21 at 4:00.  If you would like to test out a dry run of how to sign on to zoom before Sunday morning, please use the connection information above (for computer or phone) at 4:00 on Saturday.  If you are having any issues, you can call me at 847-804-3545 and we can walk you through it.  I know that I am not very tech savvy, so I understand any apprehension you may feel regarding this new format.  We are hopeful that using this practice time may alleviate anxiety and allow for a positive transition to virtual worship.  If you are already comfortable with the format, you do not need to participate on Saturday.  This is just an opportunity for those who may not be as familiar with the format.

Worship Questions

Environment - We recognize that worshiping in our sanctuary adds to the holy moment of worship and that the virtual experience will not be the same as being in person.  I would encourage you to do whatever you would like to enhance this time for yourself.  You may want to light some candles or do anything that will allow you to be more intentional during worship.

Communion - The Council has decided that we will continue to partake in communion each week, even when worshipping virtually. This has been done throughout the synod during the pandemic. This will be a BYOE – Bring your own elements - kind of experience.  We encourage you to have your own bread (however you have that available to you) and your own wine (or any other liquid). Please have your items handy at the beginning of service.  I will bless the elements and say the words of institution online.  If you are alone, you will be invited to partake of communion at that time.  If you are with someone else, you are encouraged to commune each other.  The words are: The body of Christ- given for you.  The blood of Christ- shed for you. If you would prefer to skip communion, that is perfectly fine as well. 

Grace - Please allow us a bit of grace.  As this format for worship is new to all of us, we may experience some technical difficulties here and there.  Hopefully, they will smooth out from week to week.  However, please be patient with us as we adjust and worship together. 

If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact genesiselectric@aol.com or you can call our office at 847-437-5141.

We know that this is a challenging time, but we continue to have faith that God is walking with us.  We are thankful for all of you and look forward to seeing you via zoom on Sunday!