In all things, we give thanks toGod (1 Thess.5:18). I’m thankful for all who have given counsel, shared a willingness to help others, and have continued to pray for us and for all the churches and those on the front lines of making difficult decisions to keep people safe and healthy in the last couple of weeks. As we continue to learn more about the COVID-19 virus, we want to do everything we can to make the church a place of help and refuge, and to reach out to neighbors.
We are keeping things as clean as possible. All tables, desks, pews, and other surfaces have been wiped down, using bleach where possible. Hymnals, Bibles, envelopes, and pencils have been removed from the Sanctuary for the time being and cleaned. We are washing hands frequently. We are reminding people with any health risks to maintain social isolation for their safety and reaching out via phone calls.
The Lord is good (Ps. 107:1)! I’m grateful to all who have offered help and are checking in to make sure people have food and supplies. It is a blessing that we have the technology to continue to share the Gospel online, to pray and sing together as we are able. We have canceled our midweek worship and are working on other options for devotions and prayers that can be sent via email and social media. Confirmation will meet on scheduled Thursday evenings as planned (until further notice).
Currently Senior Meals and AA meetings are still happening at Reformation, with precautions and considerations in place for those at risk. Meals may be distributed to go, based on exceptions from the state dept. of aging (who provides the grant funding). Signage has been posted in Edwins Hall about hand washing, and reminding anyone with symptoms to stay home. But the reality is that many who need these services most, have no home. They rely on the meals and the meetings to survive, and in order to serve as we are able, we will keep doors open as long as we can, and protect ourselves as best we can.
Fear and worry are normal, but as our focus is on serving others, trusting in God’s promises, and moving forward in faith, we will not be bound to that fear. Our hope is in the Lord above all (Ps. 33:22). Thank you for working together to keep ministry and mission moving forward in these challenging times.
In Christ,
Pastor Jason
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