Dear Faith Community Church Family,
Grace and peace in the name of our sovereign Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. I am writing to provide an update on how our church is responding to the developing circumstances surrounding the Coronavirus. This is a situation that is changing daily and so we appreciate your flexibility as we adapt as a church to the circumstances.
The elders have determined to make the following changes that we believe are prudent for the sake of the safety of our congregation and community:
1. Cancellation of all church-related events except for Sunday morning worship at least through the end of March: We will meet for Sunday morning worship tomorrow (March 15) at our regular worship time (9:30 am); however, we will not meet for any other church-related activities on Sunday (pre-service prayer, fellowship time, or Sunday school) or during the week (Bible studies, worship team practice, choir practice, etc.). This will continue through the end of March; though, depending on the circumstances, the timeframe could be extended beyond the end of this month.
2. Possible online format: Many churches have shifted to an online format for their worship services (streaming worship service, audio sermons, etc.). It is possible we will move to some form of online format for our worship service beginning next Sunday (March 22). If we do so, we will provide clear instructions on how this will work, and try our best to accommodate anyone that doesn’t have online access.
3. Pastoral phone calls: In an effort to provide ongoing pastoral support, the elders will be checking in with our congregants over the phone to pray with you and to provide ongoing shepherding. If you have a pastoral concern or need, do not hesitate to call us.
Please note that if you are ill or have recently been ill, or if you have recently had surgery, we ask that you remain at home to protect yourself from contracting the virus. For those who are unable to attend the service tomorrow, we will be sending out an email that will include the Scripture readings, either a written or audio version of the sermon, and the prayers of the people. I encourage you to use this for personal or family worship.
In any and every circumstance we are called to rely on our Lord and to rest in his loving protection of his people. I am reminded of the passage from our Lenten prayer service: “Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:6-7). In the midst of uncertain times (and anytime for that matter), we are called to throw our cares upon the Lord; not only is he in control of all things, but he is also working out all things for our good and for the glory of his name.
In Christ,
Pastor Rhett
For additional information on COVID-19 see links below.
World Health Organization
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
DuPage County Health Department