Written by Hey Church,
After careful consideration, we believe that it is prudent for us not to gather corporately for worship this Sunday, March 15 as well as next Sunday, March 22. This has been a difficult decision for us to make as we will miss being together very much. In light of the ever-changing status of the Coronavirus in our state, we will keep a close watch on how things develop, and will be continually evaluating our plans for future gatherings.
Though we will not be together on these dates, please be very intentional about staying connected and living life together from a distance.
Here are a few specific things to prioritize until we can all gather together again:
Participate in Home Worship this Sunday
Pastor Adam will continue to preach during this time and you can join in via livestream on our Facebook page at our regular morning time, 10:30am. The sermon will also be recorded and placed on YouTube to view at your convenience. The audio for the evening worship sermons will be posted on our website and podcast as usual. We will also send out a worship guide for you to use in your home with your family on Sunday morning. It will include: a list of songs, a sermon outline, and all the online links needed to join in (as well as a link to our online giving).
Communicate Pastoral Care Needs
We want to know if we can provide care for our people in this season, especially for those in our congregation who are at greater risk. Please let us know how we can help, no matter how big or small the matter.
Connect With Each Other
We encourage you to explore ways to still meet together and stay connected. Even if you cannot do so in person, strive to connect via phone or video calls to continue ministering to, encouraging, and praying for one another in the days and weeks ahead. Do your best to not let your connection to the body drift during this time.
Pray
We care deeply for those who are already affected by this and encourage you to pray for those who are sick and suffering. Pray also for God’s leading and wisdom as we navigate the next few weeks.
Stay Informed
Future communication will continue to be distributed through email and social media channels. Please check in regularly for the latest announcements.
Be Encouraged / Be at Peace
Lastly and most importantly, we would encourage you to extend Christian patience and understanding. This ordeal isn’t to be taken casually. For many this is a very difficult and dangerous time. With so many opinions varying so widely, now is not the time for mocking others’ fears, political posturing, or harsh indifference to the concerns of our neighbors. There is much we do not know. BUT remember what we do know. We know God is sovereign and that in all creation there isn’t a rogue molecule in existence. We also know the fruit of the Spirit is “love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control” (Galatians 5:22-23). Such is the proper response to our neighbor in the church and the world. It is a time for love—which, just like our Savior, is willing to lay aside its rights and preferences for the good of others. Our care to prevent the spread of a virus is an act of compassion through which the gospel shines brightly.
Thank you for helping us keep SonRiseCC a safe place to see, savor, and spread the beauty and glory of Jesus Christ.
In Christ,
Your Elders
SonRise Community Church 