Since the threat of the Coronavirus has come near, your Session and Diaconate has been assessing the level of risk of exposure and how to respond. Since the Session meeting on Monday night, much has transpired throughout our nation and our community regarding closures and postponement of public meetings.
After a lengthy meeting today, the Session has determined to cancel Sunday School and Worship for this Sunday, March 15. We will reassess in the middle of next week to determine whether to meet the following Lord’s Day and so on.
In addition, the Session has deemed it prudent to close the facility for all activities this coming week as well. During this time a deep cleaning will be taking place to disinfect surfaces, toys, and materials that are commonly handled.
Even though the Session has determined that the level of risk right now is moderate, the action taken to cancel services for this Sunday should be viewed as an attempt to keep ahead of the curve of infections and reduce the possibility of contracting the virus by those most vulnerable in our congregation. It has been brought to our attention that cases of infection now exist in Prince William County. We are working to stay abreast of the latest information available from sources such as the WHO and CDC as well as community public health services.
The Session will be sending out a more comprehensive plan or response to this situation in the next few days or so, so please stand by.
We covet your prayers and your patience.
The LORD is sovereign and controls every aspect of this uncertain malady. The psalmist encourages God’s people not to fear “the pestilence that stalks in darkness” (see Psalm 91:3,6, 10). At the same time, we walk with prudence and wisdom in confronting issues such as this (see Proverbs 27:12).
Should there be any family in the congregation that contracts this virus and needs help, please let us know so that we can assist in prayer and in deed.
Please be in prayer for one another – and for your officers, the Elders and the Deacons, that we would be wise and discerning. We care very deeply for all of you and desire your peace, safety, and well-being in body and in soul.
Pray the LORD use this circumstance at this particular time to soften hearts to receive the Gospel of grace to find the true living hope about which Peter writes.
May the LORD’s blessing be upon you all.
