Dear Church,
These are definitely unprecedented days we are living in. We are all trying to figure out what we need to do to take care of basic needs and to stay healthy. The church staff has been meeting regularly to determine how we can all minister to each other and the community during this time. First, we have decided to cancel all official church activities for the time being. When things clear up and the infection threat lowers, we’ll let you know the great news when activities will resume.
Second, we will be sending out regular messages over e-mail (and collected for postal mailing) of updates, spiritual reflections, prayer concerns, and practical tips. So be on the lookout for those. Feel free to share them around as helps and encouragements when you get them. This is one way that we will stay connected. And that is extra important these days: stay connected!
To help us stay connected as a church, the third thing we are doing is dividing all names and families into contact groups of about seven households, then assigning a group to every deacon and staff member. That will help us stay in touch so we know how life is going for everyone, and share whatever spiritual or physical needs we hear about. So be looking for a call from a deacon or staff person soon.
As we learn what specific needs people have, we will work to meet them. This will include care packages of food & supplies to homebound members, church activity packets for kids since they can’t go to school, and even offering prescription pickups or whatever is needed. This is a different kind of living that requires different kinds of ministry. So be ready to let us know or volunteer to help. (Call or e-mail Regina at the church if you know of a need: 645-6720.) The church will be open during regular business hours, as the staff is working even harder these days to minister in new different ways.
We will also be making our worship service available online beginning this Sunday, and next week will start making other things available, like Bible study, times of prayer, and others. Information for watching those and participating in them online (participation is encouraged!) will come soon.
There is more to say, but it can be shared in future mailings. For now, be on the lookout for information and ministry opportunities forthcoming. Enjoy some unexpected blessings of a different way of living these days. More time to rest and tend to your spirits. So use it! Don’t let your faith or service stagnate. You are needed now more than ever, and we need each other now more than ever. Fortunately, the Holy Spirit is always at work connecting us, strengthening us, and equipping us for whatever is required.
Stay healthy, in body and in spirit,
Pastor Stuart