May 22, 2020 Update:
Church family and friends, your Eldership continues to consider prayerfully the aspects of the present COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on our ability to gather in the traditional sense for worship services. One individual perhaps said it best when stating that tears are now a part of his weekly worship, referring to how much he misses gathering with fellow church members. We could not agree more.
In light of the virus infection trends in our area, as well as information from health professionals and governing officials, we feel it best to continue worshipping remotely for the foreseeable future. As the summer continues, we anticipate more information that will be helpful in determining the most practical and safest date to return together at the church building. The decision to delay further was not an easy decision as we are anxious, just as many of you, to return. However, out of an abundance of love, concern, and caution—especially when considering our physically vulnerable members—we believe this is the right decision at this time.
In the meantime, work will soon begin through various committees of deacons and members to proactively prepare for that day. The logistics involved are weighty and considerable, so we ask for your prayers as we plan and prepare for a safe environment for all ages at the appropriate time.
While we expect our return to be several weeks away, we recognize that even then some may not feel comfortable returning as soon as others. We respect and understand that individual and family circumstances differ, so we encourage members to return only when comfortable doing so. Because of the technology available, weekly services will continue to be streamed online as well as various class offerings. We are working to make even more opportunities available, and we will share new information soon.
We are in continual prayer for each of you, we love and miss each of you, and we are thankful for your faithfulness and encouragement. We encourage you to reach out to any Elder with any particular needs that you may have, and we will be grateful for any opportunity to help. We also encourage you to reach out to the vulnerable and hurting within our church family. Jesus said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” We often think of that in terms of financial giving, but in Acts 20:35, Paul puts it in the context of helping the weak. We have members who are shut-in, grieving the loss of loved ones, and who are struggling with depression and loneliness. Their needs are perhaps greater than ever during this pandemic. While physical distancing is needed, a card, a telephone call, or even a car parade past someone’s home can be a great encouragement.
As the work of our congregation continues, so do the blessings and new morning mercies The Lord provides each day. May God richly bless each of us as we seek to serve Him each day.