Community of Christ’s leadership continues its efforts to protect the most vulnerable during the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result, it has announced that all World Church sites—including properties supported by the Historic Sites Foundation—will remain closed to the public through at least August 31.
     Other properties, such as the Temple Complex and Peace Pavilion in Independence, Missouri, also will remain closed. In addition, World Church-sponsored events have been canceled through at least August 31.
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An old friend has returned to a leadership position at a Community of Christ historic site.
Steve Smith, who proved a blessing of creativity and energy in his first stint as site director at Liberty Hall, returned to the position in Lamoni, Iowa, on February 10.
​He replaces Cindy Wilson. She and her husband, Bryce Wilson, the site’s maintenance director, plan to move later this year.

    During the pandemic, it has become oh so important for people to stay connected in their relationships, their faith, and their heritage. One new way of doing this happens every Sunday night on the Facebook page of the Community of Christ Historic Site Foundation.
     Each week while stay-at-home orders are in place, a storyteller leads a short devotion. It will use a story from Community of Christ history and show how it connects to our lives and faith.
     Stories will highlight examples of the Enduring Principles, Mission Initiatives, or moments in life that cause viewers to consider the meaning behind the historic experience. The stories help us see how church history can inspire and change lives.
     And during the pandemic, they help us stay together. Join us on Facebook to find connections that span church history.

     The COVID-19 pandemic has brought undeniable hardship and pain. However, some blessings are coming from it, too. One is a video project sponsored by the Community of Christ Historic Sites Foundation.
     It’s called, “We Are All Storytellers.” In a time when so many people are feeling isolated, this project offers an opportunity for people to connect through stories. The project is seeking to collect stories from church history that reflect the goodness in humanity (people helping others, making sacrifices, practicing forgiveness, and offering generosity).
   Remember, we’re all storytellers. So brush up on your storytelling skills. Then visit the foundation’s Facebook page (www.facebook.com/Community-of-Christ-Historic-Sites-Foundation-194388303381/) to enjoy—and offer—stories.

All properties supported by the Community of Christ Historic Sites Foundation are among closures announced Friday, March 13, by World Church officials.

Those properties include the Kirtland Temple Complex in Ohio; the Joseph Smith Historic Site in Nauvoo, Illinois; Liberty Hall in Lamoni, Iowa; the historic Plano Stone Church in Illinois; and Heritage Plaza in Independence, Missouri.

Closures are being done in an effort to protect people from the COVID-19 coronavirus. Closures will run until at least Monday, April 13, The situation continues to be monitored.  

The coronavirus has forced another closing.
Officials announced Thursday, March 12, that the Kirtland Temple in Ohio would be closed for at least three weeks. The move will be done in coordination with local school closures.
The situation will be re-evaluated after the three weeks. The closing came just days after the Temple had re-opened for the spring season.

     Except for fighting the crowds, everyone loves the idea of a summer trip. But if you’re itching to soak in a bit of church history, see an incredible site, and beat the crush of tourists, you don’t have to wait for summer.
     The Kirtland Temple in Ohio has begun its spring hours, which will run through April. Guests may visit from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Wednesday through Saturday. On Sunday, the hours are 1:00 to 4:00 p.m.
     Exceptions will be on Good Friday and Easter, when the Temple will be closed.
     The Temple, also known as the House of the Lord, is a National Historical Landmark. It still is used for worship, education, and leadership.

​     It’s time to make travel plans.
    If you like stories, learning about church heritage, and seeing spectacular fall vistas, you’ll want to sign up for a tour sponsored by the Community of Christ Historic Sites Foundation.
    “A Story to Tell: Women in Community of Christ History,”  scheduled October 5–15, will offer stories of hardship, inspiration, and faith.
     The tour will span eight states and include stops at numerous church, historic, and scenic sites. Visit www.historicsitesfoundation.org/womens-history-tour.html for more information.

       If you’re seeking an internship, working for the Community of Christ Historic Sites Foundation checks all the key boxes.
        They bring college credits, a salary, an opportunity to deepen your faith, and a lot of fun.
        For more information about internships, visit  www.CofChrist.org/human-resources-job-opportunities.
     Interns at the Joseph Smith Historic Site in Nauvoo, Illinois, and the Kirtland Temple in Ohio will lead walking tours while serving as historical interpreters.
 

​            Thanks.
            It’s a simple word, but it comes from the heart of board members and supporters of the Community of Christ Historic Sites Foundation.
            Thanks for caring. Thanks for sharing. And thanks for helping the foundation meet its December fundraising goal of $25,000 in 25 days.
            Your generosity is remarkable. It will help support new education programs, host more Storyteller events, and continue a fascinating series of tours. Most important, it will help people connect with their church heritage in meaningful and personal ways.
            Again, thanks!