What a week it has been, right? Take a deep breath.
I want to update you regarding Daybreak's response to the COVID-19 virus and the recent developments regarding how to handle it and recommended actions. I've been in communication with Daybreak's leaders, other regional church leaders, Bryan Hoke from the BIC, and the Montgomery County Department of Public Safety (including an important conference call this morning for churches). I have made the difficult decision to cancel our Worship Gathering this Sunday (3/15).
We are not fearful or panicked. However, we do want to be wise, and particularly cognizant of how this virus is effecting the most vulnerable among us. In that way, our desire is that this move is a tangible way to love our neighbors by discouraging it's further spread. This is especially important right now in Montgomery County.
Our Church Management Team is monitoring the situation closely and will be in regular communication about how we as church should be responding, both to ensure the safety of all our folks, but also keeping an eye out for opportunities for us to be a blessing in our communities.
Community Music School followed the orders from Governor Wolf yesterday to close "all schools, community centers, gyms and entertainment venues, including (YMCAs), theaters, sporting events, concerts, and I am strongly recommending the closure of non-essential retail facilities", They will remain closed with a tentative re-opening date of March 30th. Daybreak still has the opportunity to utilize the building on Sundays if we so choose.
At this point, our hope is that we will resume our normal service next Sunday, March 22nd. But again, I'll keep you posted.
As of right now (as things can change rapidly), this coming Sunday morning, I will be participating in a round table discussion at another local church in Chester County along with a couple of other pastors and regional leaders. This church has cancelled all kids programs and is asking everyone 65 years or older to remain home and it will probably be a small gathering. I am not asking you attend this church but hope to share the video/podcast with you all at the beginning of next week. We will be discussing the situation, what it looks like to respect/submit to the authority over us, how our witness to our community is impacted by how we respond in this instance, best care for the vulnerable around us, and fear versus faith.
Finally, while all of this can feel overwhelming and fearful, I want to encourage you to use this as an opportunity to shine out Jesus' light and love to your neighbors. Here are a few ways you can do that:
- Follow the precautions recommended by the CDC. If you stay healthy, you won't help spread anything. (see these precautions below.)
- Pray for and check in on your elderly neighbors or those with chronic illnesses. Can you pick up some groceries or other necessities for them so they don't need to go out? Can you pick up medications for them at the Pharmacy?
- Only buy just what you need. If you need something, go ahead and get it. But don't let fear drive you to stock up on things you don't need that others might. If you have 10 cases of toilet paper at home, you've probably given into fear ...
- Check in with one another. If you are concerned about someone, check in with them and see if there's any way you can help out.
- My hope and prayer is that we would respond with profound love and grace during this uncertain time, bringing peace where there is anxiety, hope where there is despair and love where there is fear.
If at anytime you have needs, questions, thoughts, need prayer etc... please give me a call. Cell # 610.850.3454
Prayer & blessings,
Dave
CDC Recommendations to stay healthy:
- Practice social distancing (limit unnecessary gatherings with large groups)
- Stay home when you are sick
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom, before eating, and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing (If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer)
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash
- Clean and disinfect frequently-touched objects and surfaces (phone, computers, etc.)