Dear Friends in Christ…
Grace and peace to all of you. I know you are hearing much regarding the COVID-19 pandemic. It surely is easy to feel anxious and overwhelmed in the midst of all the reports coming at us as we figure out ways to cope with this virus and mitigate its spread! It is good to remember that God is with us – “Fear not, I am with thee, O be not dismayed, for I am thy God and will still give thee aid; I’ll strengthen thee, help thee, and cause thee to stand, upheld by my righteous, omnipotent hand.”
I want to share with you that we are taking the advised cautions for dealing with this virus. Surfaces are being scoured and cleaned; toys are being washed with Clorox; our First Care folks are on top of things as well. Sanitizers are available throughout the building, and our custodial team is working hard, wiping down surfaces and doorknobs, etc.
Even still, please use your best judgment regarding your attendance at church-related events. If you are among those most vulnerable, please consider your health first. Feel free to let us know if you are planning to stay away from worship or other activities, so that we can stay in touch with you. We want you to still feel connected, even if you aren’t able to be present.
In worship, we have already taken precautions regarding Holy Communion and will continue to make adaptations as needed. We also have modified our “Surely the Presence” tradition to minimize contact. And don’t forget that we have ways for you to give financially on-line, so the ministries of the church can continue.
This is new territory for all of us, and many are wondering what they can do.
- First of all, breathe – try to maintain a calm, non-anxious presence.
- Pray – for those already infected, for those who have lost loved ones, for those on the frontline offering care and response.
- Reach out to your neighbors and to our older members to offer support and connection, so they don’t feel isolated or forgotten. If you or someone you know is in need of pastoral support or care, please let us know so we can respond.
- Consider giving online or signing up for electronic giving.
- If you are ill, or among the vulnerable population, please consider staying home out of consideration for others and yourself.
As things continue to develop and we receive more information from the CDC, we will keep you updated. Again, if you have questions or concerns, feel free to reach out to me. In the meantime, pray for an end to this pandemic, and remember…God is with us, always.
Blessings, Marsha
CDC website https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/index.html
Attachment: 2019-ncov-factsheet.pdf (114.4kB)
Attachment: MDHHS_Interim_Recommendations_for_COVID-19_final_683589_7.pdf (163.3kB)
Attachment: share-facts-h.pdf (108.6kB)
777 West Eight Mile Road, Northville, MI 48167 Phone: 248-349-1144 Fax 248-349-0777
Office Hours: Monday – Friday, 9 am – 5 pm email: fumc777@fumcnorthville.org