WE ARE REOPENING PUBLIC WORSHIP THIS SUNDAY, MAY 31ST.
Dear Family, May 26, 2020
WE ARE REOPENING PUBLIC WORSHIP THIS SUNDAY, MAY 31ST.
-Outdoor worship is the safest, and will be pursued as first option as weather allows.
-We are working to diminish the worry of sickness by meeting outside this week, parking in a semi-circular fashion.
-You can enter at both entrances and drive to tape marks on pavement or grass.
-Those with SUVs can sit in the back with tailgate up or use a camping chair that they bring.
-By bringing a chair from home we eliminate the need to sanitize.
-We will not be able to visit and socialize
HOW CAN YOU BE INVOLVED?
-We continue to encourage folk to record testimony of God’s goodness, protection, and provision.
-Record brief comments on a verse God is using to encourage you. Send to Pastor Randy’s/Joshua’s ph.
-Sunday set up help by 10AM is welcome to disinfect bathrooms, doors, & make sure sound is working.
-Please offer suggestions for improving what we offer.
-Please continue to seek and offer prayer support. Share concerns as we need to combine our trust.
-Offering buckets will be available for your envelops as you exit.
INSIDE THE CHURCH WE MUST …
-Temperature checks can be made at entrance through handheld devices.(needs to be normal to enter)
-If you do not feel comfortable attending, please continue watching/worshipping through Youtube.
-Please sit as families so we can sit closely.
-Sing with face covering of choice till sanctions lift.
-New Jersey governor currently limits outdoor gatherings to 25, indoor spacing like press conferences.
-Space ourselves out so we are not singing over another’s shoulder.
-Each assembly needs to disinfect pew top rails, push plates on doors, bathroom partitions, stair handrails…basically anything we touch.
-Offering plates will be provided at time of exit.
BIBLICAL TENSIONS WE TRY TO BALANCE…
-Romans 13:1-5 tells us to submit to our government as long as it does not command us to violate biblical commands or even overstep our state and national constitutions.
-Acts 2:42-47 and Hebrews 10:25 command the faithful assembly of ourselves together when prudent. Obviously the “stay at home” directive to “flatten the curve” do not violate those Scriptures. Why is it that we can be around each other in large stores most of which do not enforce social distancing and touch items handled by others, and yet not be able to lovingly social distance at worship?
-As Christians we are commanded to love our neighbors as ourselves. We practice safe health to show love to the most vulnerable, hospitals, and preventing a second wave. We also need to get out to show God’s love in more creative tangible ways.
-The Bible clearly teaches us to do what promotes the glory of God which allows us to be seen as honorable by those around us (2 Cor. 8:21). We are to live in peace with those around us as it is possible so that the Gospel shines through (1 Cor. 10:31-33). If there is an offense, we must use our biblical principles to guide us toward restoring friendship and support.
-Even with presidential permission, we are still under obligation to use much wisdom.
-Pray for good weather for worship.
Please feel free to discuss …offer input, and pose questions…..Pastor Randy