Dear Friends in Christ:

I write to assure you that we are monitoring the coronavirus very carefully and our response, as a place where people gather for solace, learning, and community. We are coordinating closely with other churches, the Kindergarten, the city, and the agencies that are charged with public health in our state. 

These things are clear. The threat is real and growing, but there are practical things we can do for safety of ourselves, those whom we love, and those who will visit this church seeking comfort in these uncertain times. 

I know by now you have heard all of this many, many times, but it continues to be the sanest advice in a sea of misinformation:

• Wash your hands often and thoroughly

• Try to avoid touching your face

• Keep your distance from anyone who may be coughing and in general, practice “social distancing,” including close contact and shaking hands

• If you’re feverish or aching, call your doctor (do not go to the emergency room unless that is your only means of care) and care for yourself

• Stay in your home if your immune or respiratory system is compromised

At this time, we are planning to hold worship this Sunday. There will be sanitizer at the entrance to the church and there will be soap and fresh paper towels in the washrooms. The surfaces in the education building are wiped regularly and the Sanctuary is cleaned thoroughly, but special measures will be made to make sure that the Sanctuary is as clean as possible for Sunday.

We must be vigilant but continue to lead our lives. I know that we also, as a community, will find solace in being together and praying for those affected by the coronavirus. While we are known to be a loving, friendly congregation, we will avoid contact during the “greeting” of those around us at the beginning of the service and Nicole, as our greeter supreme, will be refraining from her loving gift of welcoming hugs. As your Second Family, we will work together to make sure that those for whom venturing outside of their homes is limited, are checked upon regularly, visited if desired, and offered assistance with their shopping and errands.

While we wish that our entire congregation could be with us this Sunday, we realize that there are some who will choose not to be in a public space. We also realize that members may only place their pledge or offering in the plate when they are in church. We would ask that you keep Second Presbyterian in your prayers as well and consider keeping current with your pledge or make a special gift to ensure that the church is able to maintain operations during this unsettling time. You may always mail in a check to the office or make a gift online.

In short, we do not know what the coming days will bring to our community and to the world, but we will continue to pray for each other and the world. If we are forced to suspend worship in the Sanctuary in the coming weeks, I plan to preach on a regular basis and pray for your safety and well-being. We will continue to post the sermons online and will be exploring the possibility of live streaming. I will also continue to be in touch with you as this situation evolves and pray that it will be short-lived.

At times like this, I realize it is difficult to comprehend why we are in the midst of a pandemic. As I often remind you, we have a God who would not love us less for anything we have done, but who by God’s very nature, could not love us more! Jesus said, “Peace I leave you, my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid.”

Good words for eternity – and for now. Peace be with you.   

In Christ,