JULY ... Return to Worship

Welcome Back… Again!

Greetings in the wonderful Name of Jesus!

Let me start by saying how happy I am that we are gathering for service again. I, and my family, have missed each of you. I also want to say a BIG “THANK YOU” for your patience and understanding as we try to conscientiously navigate these times. I know we all have mixed emotions regarding the COVID-19 situation. I have my own opinions on the circumstances, but also realize that there is much we are still learning. What I do know is it is a real virus and it can be very harmful to those who have compromised immune systems and pre-existing medical conditions. This past week we had two close family friends pass away from the COVID-19 virus. I also have a close minster friend who is in the hospital on a ventilator, but thankfully recovering from the virus. There is need for concern and care.

One of the difficult things as a pastor is to balance the realities and the possibilities. On one hand we see that statistically the virus has a 99% survival rate, on the other we see the danger it poses. As an under-shepherd entrusted with the flock of the Great Shepherd I know I must answer to Him for the care of His people. I am blessed to pastor the greatest people in the world. I am also honored that you all have a strong desire to be together for worship. It speaks to your commitment and faithfulness in your walk and work for God. I thank the Lord for that daily.

Regarding gathering for worship, I am asking you to please be mindful of one another, and respectful of each other’s comfort levels. The most important thing is that we maintain UNITY in the Spirit. It is easy to allow our opinions to overshadow our viewpoint. Whatever our thoughts about the COVID-19 virus or the political/social unrest in our nation, our priority is unity. I have listened to other ministers telling sad stories of people within their congregations that have allowed the events outside the church cause division within the church and bemoan the hurt of having to deal with those situations. We are a revival church and revival only tarries where there is unity. I thank you in advance for loving one another, caring for each other, encouraging one another, and edifying each other.

I have spent much time praying and fasting for direction as we gather once again. I am asking for patience, understanding, and cooperation as we follow some practices and protocols to keep everyone safe and healthy.

Returning to worship is a voluntary choice you are making for you and your family. I am not mandating that you come to service just because the doors are open. I am asking that you use wisdom in deciding whether you are comfortable returning to on-site service. I respect and support your decision. I pray that you will be able to join us again soon.

Practices:

STAY HOME if you or a family member are experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, the flu, or the common cold. Symptoms include:

• Fever over 100⁰

• Persistent Cough

• Headache associated with flu/cold

• Vomiting within the previous 24 hours

• Chills

Continue to practice physical distancing in as feasible a manner as possible.

• Be respectful of each other’s comfort level.

Pick a Clip (Make it fun)

- Red

• No physical contact

• Maintain 6’ distance

• Not socializing at this time

• May or may not use a mask

- Yellow

• Wave, nod, or elbow bump

• “I am okay if you get a little close.”

• Limited social interaction

• May or may not use a mask

- Green

• Physical contact is okay

• Willing to shake hands, fist bump, or hug

• Enjoy socializing

Maintain Facility Cleanliness

• We have asked our First Touch Teams to open the entry doors for you, and routinely wipe down door handles, push plates, and any other surfaces that are periodically touched.

• If you need to cough or sneeze, cover your mouth with your sleeve or tissue.

• Discard you own tissues and trash. Do not leave them laying around for the cleaning crew to pick up.

• Wash your hands with soap and water.

• Use hand sanitizer as often as needed. Dispenser located by drinking fountain.

• Use the disinfectant wipes to clean surfaces if needed.

We are working diligently between services to follow the cleaning guidelines set forth by the CDC, State of Arizona Health Department, and the Mohave County Health Department to ensure our facilities are sanitized to the highest standards possible.

Special Emphasis:

- Sit as a family unit.

• Parents keep your children from roaming about the building.

• I know it is a difficult thing to ask children to sit or stand quietly, but you are the parent and it is your responsibility to keep them in check.

• To protect our children DO NOT take a non-family member’s child unless they ask you to help.

• DO NOT ASK! It will save them the uncomfortable position of saying “NO.”

- Do NOT gather in the Foyer.

- Do NOT gather in or block the doorways and aisle ways.

- DO gather in the sanctuary and join in Pre-Service Prayer.

- If you're not praying be respectful of those who are and keep conversation to a minimum and at a respectful volume.

­In Service Practices:

Worship

- We will sing corporately.

- If you are not comfortable singing continue to worship.

- If you sing, make a joyful noise.

- It’s okay to run, shout, rejoice.

• Worship like no one is watching.

• If you decide to get out of your seat and worship DO NOT grab someone and drag them with you.

• During this time ask them if they want to join you.

• Don’t get offended if they worship in place.

Corporate Prayer Time

- If you need special prayer come forward.

- We will anoint and pray for you.

Offering

- If you need an Offering Envelope the greeters will gladly provide one to you.

- We will still march to give.

- The offering plates and Special Projects jar will be on the altar.

- Greet one another but respect their interaction level.

Altar Time

- The altar is always open.

- If you are comfortable gathering at the altar, come on down.

- If you’re not comfortable gathering, it’s okay, pray in your pew.

DO NOT allow these temporary inconveniences to hinder your worship.

LET’S HAVE REVIVAL!!!!

- Pastor Lucas