COVID-19 PRECAUTIONS
Dear church,
As we’ve been following news around COVID-19 closely, including the closing of public schools, Colleges and Universities, parks, Churches and non-essential businesses.
In light of these developments, our church leadership has decided to suspend worship services until further notice. We have made this decision in light of the inherent risk of group gatherings.
Please note that we are not making this decision out of fear. Rather we are making this decision out of love – love for our church family that could be exposed, love for our city that is asking large gatherings be suspended for the purpose of public health, and love for healthcare professionals who are asking that we try to mitigate the spread of this virus to ensure they have capacity for all who need help.
We hope that each person in our church will exhibit a posture of love and generosity, as you choose to regularly check in on those who might feel especially isolated in a season without the social opportunities church can provide, or as you offer to pick up groceries for a neighbor who is unable to leave their home. This is an opportunity for us to practice love in deep and meaningful ways when there are far too many stories of fear leading to panicked selfishness.
In the coming days, you will hear news that might make you anxious, and, as we continue to identify what ministries may need to change or stop to protect the health of our community, you might feel isolated or alone. Know that you are not alone and that your pastor and ministers will be making time available to respond to emails, have phone conversations, and journey with you. Please reach out to any of our ministers if you need to talk, to pray about any fear or anxiety you may be feeling, or want to hear a friendly and familiar voice.
As things continue to change, we should all take solace in the promise our God makes to God’s people in Isaiah 43 –
“Do not fear, for I have redeemed you;
I have summoned you by name; you are mine.
When you pass through the waters,
I will be with you;
and when you pass through the rivers,
they will not sweep over you.
When you walk through the fire,
you will not be burned;
the flames will not set you ablaze.”
Even in the face of uncertain and troubling times, we have reason for hope, reason to extend love in powerful ways, reason to trust in our God who saves us.
In Christ,
Pastor Corey D. Robinson