Last week every member in the congregation received a letter from the elders as a reminder of the scheduled worship services and current Bible study opportunities provided to the church family. The pandemic has interrupted some of life’s routines; however, we must stay steadfast in our spiritual growth and connection with one another.
The shepherds are working hard to provide a safe environment at the building for worship. Measures have been implemented to minimize the potential spread of the virus by limiting close contact with one another. These steps include reduced seating, masks, individual communion kits, cleaning between services, and fellowshipping outdoors while maintaining a safe distance.
Two assemblies (one at 10 a.m. and one at 6 p.m) are provided each Sunday for our members to safely worship at the building. The elders are in attendance at both services. We encourage all who do not have compromised health to be at attendance at one of the assemblies according to their last name. Our purpose is to worship God on the first day of the week. An added benefit is the fellowship that occurs outside the building after services.
We certainly understand those members who have great concern about being in public places. For those who have comprised health, we continue to offer “live” streaming of our 10 a.m. worship service.
Secondly, each member is encouraged to continue regular and Wednesday evening Bible study. The letter you received lists all online class offerings and resources for personal Bible study. Children’s Bible classes are also being recorded weekly for the K-5 age group. We hope parents are taking advantage of this great resource to study with their children.
Please stay diligent during this challenging time (I Corinthians 15:58). Ask yourself, “Have I allowed the current pandemic to change my spiritual obligations to God, to myself and to my fellow Christians in any way?” I Peter 5:8 states, “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.”
Let us continue to be doers always and especially now (James 1:22).
The shepherds love you and pray for you.
Terry Clark