Seeing more people in pews and attending church events is bringing a smile to the face of Pastor Matthew Sprunger. He had just started at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Kewaunee when the pandemic closed its doors. While people were allowed to attend Christmas services last year, there were still people that stayed away due to concerns around COVID-19. As advent crosses the halfway point, Sprunger says they have worked hard to keep families engaged with the church.

While they hope to see you in a pew, many congregations like Immanuel Lutheran’s still offer a live stream or a recorded video of the service for those who do not feel comfortable yet going back to church. Advent concludes with the celebration of Christmas on December 25th.