Scheduling updates amid COVID-19 precautions

​Hello everyone, 
 
As you know, our country and world has responded in many ways to the COVID-19 virus.  Some are responding in panic, others are saying not to worry about anything, while there are several other responses in between.  Here is where I stand as pastor and we stand as a church board: we need to be diligent in how we protect ourselves and others from spreading the virus while maintaining peace and a level head in how we do that.  Jesus said he gives us peace (John 14:27).  My prayer is that we live in that peace and we can shine to those around us during this tumultuous time.  It seems like every hour is bringing another thought, another community message, another outbreak.
 
With that said, the LBA has decided to suspend all ministries EXCEPT our morning worship service until further notice.  Personally, I hope to return to our normal schedule on Palm Sunday, but that is not a guarantee at this point.  We will worship at 11 am on Sunday.  The CDC has not recommended faith communities stop meeting at this point, and our governor has only limited groups of over 250 from meeting together.  As long as we feel it is safe and advisable, we will worship together.  Our only request is that we hold off on shaking hands until this threat has been minimized, and communion may look a bit different for us.  
 
To reiterate this message, Sunday School, youth group, and the chimes choir will be on hold for the next few weeks.  The food distribution will be cancelled this month along with the Love Closet.  Also, Family Feud will be rescheduled to a later date.  We hope this is a short interruption, but also will be following guidelines and procedures by our leaders in the Wesleyan Church, our government leaders and the CDC.
 
The best way to avoid this disease is very similar to how you avoid the flu.

• Wash your hands often
• Avoid touching any part of your face with unwashed hands
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick
• Stay home when you are sick
• Cough or sneeze into a tissue or a sleeve (not your hands)
• Clean and disinfect areas frequently

 
There are many more resources to look at regarding this illness (Henry Ford Allegiance is a good resource).  We are also working to make sure our church is clean and sanitized for those who are able to come worship.
 
I have two more things to say as your pastor.  One, this virus is more of a threat to those with compromised health and older people.  If you find yourself in these categories, please use your best judgment whether to venture out.  I care more about your health than if you can make church the next couple weeks.  I’d love to see each and every one of you, but also care about you enough to say stay home if you’re not feeling well or have a heart condition or diabetes or another chronic illness.  Or, stay home if you’re concerned about coming out.  
 
Two, I want to remind you what Hebrews 13:8 states.  It says, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.”  We just had a message that talked about the fact that God still reigns, and we serve a great and powerful God.  He is not surprised by this, nor is he intimidated by the moment.  Let’s trust in Him.  Let’s be smart and level-headed together.  And let’s get through this together.  
 
I thank God every time I remember you all, and I’m thankful to be your pastor.  We will get through this together with God’s help!
 
Pastor Bart