March 18, 2020.
RE: COVID-19
Dear Church,
I am writing this letter to address the challenges we are facing in our nation and in our community concerning the COVID-19 virus. As a Church we must take precautions not to facilitate the spread of this virus among our families. In order to minimize exposure we have already requested the physical contact be avoided, such as hand shaking. Also, the seating in the auditorium has bee spaced to every other pew. Special cleaning and sanitizing is being done after each service. If you are experiencing signs of any illness please st in and take care of yourself.
We will be making other temporary changes in our church services, but first take heart from the word of God. Joshua 1:9 says "Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed; for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest." And Isaiah 41:13 says "For I the Lord thy God will hold thy right hand saying unto thee, fear not; I will help thee" We know God is sovereign in all things. Our duty is to be faithful, worship and pray for your church and our leaders, as we are commanded to do. Remember, the church is commissioned to do more than just assemble, we mus pray, give, witness and care for our neighbors, and more.
Some of the temporary changes we will be making are as follows:
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We will be suspending the bus ministry until further notice. Bus pick-up will be resumed as soon as possible.
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Church services will change as well to one service on Sunday. The Sunday School and Church will be combined to one service and will meet from 10:30 - 11:30 AM.
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Sunday evening service will be suspended; however the Church will be opened from 7:00 - 8:00 PM for a time of prayer for those who would like to come.
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Wednesday night service will also be suspended but the Church will be opened from 7:00-8:00 PM for prayer for those who would like to come.
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Thursday night Youth Group will be temporarily suspended.
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Friday night Reformers Unanimous will be suspended until further notice.
These changes are only for a short time as we trust the Lord to get us through these challenging days. I know this is an inconvenience to many of you, but our priorities must bekept inperspective as we do our part in limiting this virus in our land.
God Bless you, and as your Pastor, if I can be of any help to you and your family during this time, please don't hesitate to call the Church.
Love in Christ,
Jim McKinnies, Pastor.