Dear Branch of Hope Family,
Like so many of you, we have spent the last few days and weeks learning about the Coronavirus (COVID-19) and how it is impacting our community. From water shortages, a lack of toilet paper (the real travesty here), and other things, we want to be proactive in realizing and actualizing a few things.
First, we are not dictated by fear, but by God’s word as it gives us wisdom to make decisions. Before us, perhaps, we may have a wonderful opportunity to minister the gospel to those who are panicking. Like world events that have shaped us in the past, please be thinking on new ways to share with others as they contemplate eternity. Do your best not to get swept up in all of the news and emails you are no doubt watching and receiving. Be wise, but rest and trust that not a single hair on your head will fall without our Father in heaven knowing about it. We take a stand and do not approach this with worldly eyes but in full rest and assurance of God’s goodness and glory.
Second, though the politicians in Sacramento have warned Californians to avoid social contact, the reality is we will still be having our church service so that we can worship Jesus Christ in Spirit and in Truth, as a family, on Sunday. No, the service will not be cancelled. This does presuppose the fact that each of our family members needs to be wise when coming; keeping sick kids at home, washing hands thoroughly and following the CDC’s guidelines on best practices to stop the spread of germs.
Third, though we will not be having communion this week due to no teaching elder present, we are taking precautions for further weeks and have come up with some good plans for those who do not feel comfortable. We will also be canceling Sunday school this week in an effort to keep contact/time to a minimum so please make a note accordingly. We will be engaging our cleaning services this week and have already had the carpet company come and clean the chairs/carpet.
If any of you have questions or suggestions, please feel free to contact me or any of the elders/deacons at any time and we will do our best to get back to you. In the meantime, until Sunday, keep dry, stay hydrated (just go outside and open your mouths), and engage our community with the gospel of hope in any and all circumstances.
With love,
Daniel Parkins
Director of Congregational Care