Responding to Congregational Needs During COVID 19

                  Announcement shared Sunday morning by Rev. Linda Park

  Dear Friends,

This is an unprecedented time, at least for me and my generation who have never experienced any world crisis.  The coronavirus has affected much of the world.  There is much fear and even panic in some places.  We definitely do not want to add to that by overreacting.  However, we do want to be cautious and diligent so that we can curb or even stop the spread of the virus, at least around us.

The Session met this morning at 9:00 am and decided to cancel all of our regular programs along with Sunday worship services until the end of March at which time we will reassess the situation.  We will keep you posted via email and Facebook, and ask you to help share the news with those who are not online. 

Rev. Bob and Cathie, who are on holiday this week, have canceled their travel plans.  Though disappointed, they wanted to do the right thing and hopefully set an example for others who are considering their travel plans. 

There’s a lot of disappointment and maybe even anger at the situation we are facing.  Lots of plans are put on hold or canceled as people are not sure what to expect in the coming days.  There's worry, anxiety, and fear.  As a church, I believe we’re to be the voice of hope and calm and assurance. 

The early church also faced times like this when cities and towns were rampant with plagues in the second and third century.  As everyone fled to the countryside, Christians remained in the city to care for those who were suffering.  Loving their neighbor was their practice, and they were beacons of hope to those around them.  Let us continue to practice that. 

During times like this when people pull back and grow more isolated and alone, we need to stay connected.  And we need everyone’s help to do that.  Let’s keep in touch with one another whether it’s by telephone or texting or Face Time.  For those who enjoy chatting on the phone, please call a different person every day, especially those you know who are isolated.    

Above all, let’s pray.  Even in this awful, messy, anxiety-inducing time let’s search for opportunities that God might be offering us.  As programs and gatherings are cancelled and we find we have more time, perhaps we can truly experience the Sabbath rest God promised to all who seek Him.  Remember we are in the season of Lent, let’s embrace it more fully by spending time with our Heavenly Father and praying for our world.