Update from the Elders

 

A message from the FBBC elders

As many of you know, news and responses to the new coronavirus are developing rapidly. As you saw in a previous message, this is a time that should be marked by (1) common sense, (2) compassion, and (3) confidence.

We remain confident in our Lord’s sovereignty, and FBBC’s leadership has made some decisions regarding temporary changes to our Sunday morning schedule. These decisions are not motivated by fear or panic but are a way of (1) honoring the recommendations given to us by experts and authorities at both the national and state level and (2) showing love and consideration to our community.

From now through Easter Sunday (April 12), the following changes will be in effect:

  1. There will be no nursery, childcare, or children’s classes during either service.
  2. At 9:00am we will have an English service in the sanctuary and only one Spanish Pathway class. This class will be in the Fellowship Hall and is open to all adults.
  3. There will be no bread, coffee, and fellowship time between services.
  4. At 11:00am we will have a Spanish service in the sanctuary and only one English Pathway class. This class will be in the Fellowship Hall and is open to both youth and adults.

During this time, we’d also like to make some recommendations:

  1. If you are showing symptoms of sickness, please stay home.
  2. If you believe you have been exposed to COVID-19, please stay home.
  3. If you have come in contact with a confirmed case of COVID-19, please let an elder know. The details will remain confidential, but we would let our members know of the risk.
  4. If you have a higher risk of complications—due to age or underlying health conditions—please consider whether or not you should attend.
  5. If you choose to stay home during this season, please contact others in the church about your situation.
  6. Wash your hands regularly, especially before and after our public gatherings.
  7. Bring tissues and hand sanitizer for personal use.
  8. Extend love to those who prefer not to shake hands, hug, kiss, or sit next to others during this time.

Though this time might feel like an inconvenience to some, we must also realize that these simple steps show love and consideration for those in our community, especially those who are most at risk. God willing, these changes won’t have to remain in effect very long, but either way, God’s work through us as His church continues. Through this time, here are some helpful verses to consider (ESV):

  1. Matthew 7:12—So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets.
  2. Isaiah 26:3-4—You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you. Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord God is an everlasting rock.

If you have any further questions or comments, please feel free to talk to any of the FBBC elders or ministry leaders.

United in Christ,

The FBBC Elders