As you know, we are in the midst of unprecedented times, facing unknown circumstances. But, as Christians, we can live and face the future with a peace that passes all understanding and a hope that enables us to persevere, because we serve a God who is with us to comfort, strengthen, and lead us in the present, and who holds our future in his eternal hands.
So, in the midst of this crisis, may we be known by a love that cast out all fear, instead of contributing to the panic and fear that surrounds us. At a time where everyone is obsessed with themselves, may we look for new ways to serve others. As terrible as this situation is, I believe it provides many opportunities for us to be the Church and to demonstrate what it means to be a follower of Jesus Christ.
So, as you seek to take care of yourself and your own family, look for ways that you can love your neighbor and offer help, especially to the elderly and those most affected by this crisis.
As far as our church activities, we have seen some churches close and choose to not have worship services, while others are staying open. Both are options, but we have decided to stay open this weekend and offer our normal times of worship. Both of our services have gatherings of less than the 200, which is the limit imposed by the government, and we will be taking extra precautions to ensure the safety of those who attend. If circumstances or regulations change, we will adjust accordingly.
Here’s how it will work.
If you are sick, you need to stay home, so as not to infect others. If you have a reduced immune system, you should probably stay home as well, so as not put yourself at risk. Everyone is encouraged to use common sense and sound judgement.
We will have hand sanitizer at all entrances. We ask that you limit the traditional shaking of hands and hugs we normally display, and practice human distancing.
Instead of passing the offering plates, there will be a basket placed at the entrance to put your offerings in, either before or after the service.
Instead of registering your attendance and passing the pads in the pews, there will be someone at the entrance to register your attendance and take your reservation for Wednesday Night supper.
On Communion Sunday, April 5, instead of using the normal method of Intinction, where we dip the bread in the Cup, we will use individual cups for the juice.
All facilities are being disinfected prior to use.
For those who are not able or choose not to attend our worship services, both of our services will be broadcast live on our Facebook Page: @ZacharyUMC or you can listen to the sermon afterwards by going to our webpage: www.zacharyumc.org
All other small groups, Sunday School classes, and meetings will continue, unless those groups decide not to meet or meet in alternative ways. Each group should observe the practices mentioned above. Again, if circumstances or regulations change, we will adjust.
For those not able to attend, please continue your financial support by using our Online or Mobile Giving. You can access this through our website.
Until circumstances change, in the midst of these chaotic times, we will offer the opportunity to safely worship and gather as God’s people to pray and encourage each other. We will be posting updated schedules on our website, our Facebook Page (@ZacharyUMC), and by email. If you or those around you have needs that we can help with, please contact the Church office 225-654-2389.
May God’s peace be upon you.
Rev. Ricky Willis
So, in the midst of this crisis, may we be known by a love that cast out all fear, instead of contributing to the panic and fear that surrounds us. At a time where everyone is obsessed with themselves, may we look for new ways to serve others. As terrible as this situation is, I believe it provides many opportunities for us to be the Church and to demonstrate what it means to be a follower of Jesus Christ.
So, as you seek to take care of yourself and your own family, look for ways that you can love your neighbor and offer help, especially to the elderly and those most affected by this crisis.
As far as our church activities, we have seen some churches close and choose to not have worship services, while others are staying open. Both are options, but we have decided to stay open this weekend and offer our normal times of worship. Both of our services have gatherings of less than the 200, which is the limit imposed by the government, and we will be taking extra precautions to ensure the safety of those who attend. If circumstances or regulations change, we will adjust accordingly.
Here’s how it will work.
If you are sick, you need to stay home, so as not to infect others. If you have a reduced immune system, you should probably stay home as well, so as not put yourself at risk. Everyone is encouraged to use common sense and sound judgement.
We will have hand sanitizer at all entrances. We ask that you limit the traditional shaking of hands and hugs we normally display, and practice human distancing.
Instead of passing the offering plates, there will be a basket placed at the entrance to put your offerings in, either before or after the service.
Instead of registering your attendance and passing the pads in the pews, there will be someone at the entrance to register your attendance and take your reservation for Wednesday Night supper.
On Communion Sunday, April 5, instead of using the normal method of Intinction, where we dip the bread in the Cup, we will use individual cups for the juice.
All facilities are being disinfected prior to use.
For those who are not able or choose not to attend our worship services, both of our services will be broadcast live on our Facebook Page: @ZacharyUMC or you can listen to the sermon afterwards by going to our webpage: www.zacharyumc.org
All other small groups, Sunday School classes, and meetings will continue, unless those groups decide not to meet or meet in alternative ways. Each group should observe the practices mentioned above. Again, if circumstances or regulations change, we will adjust.
For those not able to attend, please continue your financial support by using our Online or Mobile Giving. You can access this through our website.
Until circumstances change, in the midst of these chaotic times, we will offer the opportunity to safely worship and gather as God’s people to pray and encourage each other. We will be posting updated schedules on our website, our Facebook Page (@ZacharyUMC), and by email. If you or those around you have needs that we can help with, please contact the Church office 225-654-2389.
May God’s peace be upon you.
Rev. Ricky Willis