Hi Everyone.
I recently discovered the phrase or notion to “wait upon the Lord” is used 25 times in the psalms. Naturally, this means it’s something we should learn to do. I know that this time of isolation and restriction has been difficult for many. Some have been left fearful, and some are frustrated or angry. As believers, we understand the need to obey the civil authorities that God has placed over us even though we may not entirely agree with them. However, maybe God is not simply teaching us something about patience but also submission.
Psalm 27 verse 14 says “Wait for the Lord; Be strong and let your heart take courage. Yes, wait for the Lord”.
Like so many of you, I am eager to throw open the doors of the church and begin to meet again. We now have guidelines and we have explanations of guidelines. We even have some explanations of the explanations. More importantly though, we have permission to open services with 30% of the total building capacity. Things are finally moving forward!! Obviously, this means every church must make a decision for itself. When is the best time to open?
Well, over the last several weeks, I have been part of numerous meetings to discuss the reopening of our churches. Many have mixed feelings at this point. There is a very small number of churches that conducted their first service last Sunday, and there is a couple of churches planning to do so this Sunday.
Preparations for worship will begin with establishing designated seating (as per social distancing rules), sending out e-vites, gathering RSVP’s, sanitizing, putting up sanitation stations, communicating there is to be no socializing, no children’s ministries, no nursery, no sharing of materials, no passing of the offering plate, and no Lord’s supper (unless it can be done without contact). Ushers will be placed at doors to ensure people come in and seat themselves directly and then exit promptly when told. There will also likely be lines to maintain social distancing as people line up to enter the building; one way traffic flow established and masks handed out if people do not bring their own. Singing is yet to be determined. However, temperatures may be checked along with a verification document pertaining to travel, and possible covid related contact filled out!…………… We too will begin the process!! In saying that however, I met with our board of deacons last night and I want to share the decisions we have made thus far.
First, because we are considering our seniors, the fact that Haldimand-Norfolk is not yet in stage 2 (due to the recent outbreak), the anxiety and fear surrounding this Covid virus, and the need to communicate/execute reopening plans we have decided that we will hold off opening our doors for four weeks. At that point the board of deacons will meet (on July 13th) to revisit the decision. Pray some of the restrictions will be lifted by then.
I know this is maybe something of a disappointment for you but we really do want all parties to feel safe as we regather.
Secondly, we as a board have decided that beginning on Sunday June 28th at 7pm there will be a prayer meeting held at the church. This will not only allow us to gather for prayer but interact and maybe glean some other ideas that need to be considered for the reopening. The maximum number in each group will be ten as social distancing rules will apply.
I do think it’s important for you to know we are not the only church holding back. Many of the other churches have decided they will remain closed and continue with online services until the end of July. Some have even said they will wait until the first Sunday in September. It may also be helpful for you to know we make these decisions out of love for our brothers and sisters in Christ. So, with all of that in mind, if you have a desire to help with preparations for our reopening (ie. additional ushering support, doing the evites, assigning seating etc) please let me (Pastor Mike) know. Again, thank you for your patience, and for your love for one another. I know this is maybe hard to receive. However, may God bless you as you wait upon Him. May you find new blessings in your family, in His creation and in slowing down to appreciate Him more.
Love in Christ
Pastor Mike.