Over the past week there have been a number of significant developments related to what has come to be known as the Corona virus. Not only have we learned from our nation’s experts how we individually can minimize the risk of contracting the virus ourselves and for our families but also that practicing social distancing is the best way to slow the spread of COVID-19.
On March 12, 2020, NC state health officials expressly requested the cancelling of large gatherings as a cautionary step and Friday the 13th, President Trump declared a National Emergency as a result of the spread of the virus in the US.
We know there are those in our community—certainly in our own church—for whom this virus could be very serious. God has always had a heart for the vulnerable in the world (Psalm 146:9, Isaiah 25:4). As God cares for the vulnerable, so, too, do we (James 1:27) and we want to be proactive in our care.
In this specific case, we believe that our church can, and should, model submission to governmental authorities (1 Peter 2:13-25, Romans 13:1-7).
Thus, while it goes against every fiber of our being, the Elders have decided to suspend the Sunday church service and all ministry activities for the week of March 15, 2020. As the week progresses and more information becomes available, we will reassess next steps and inform you accordingly.
This means that we will not have a live worship experience on Sunday March 15. Also, all groups, regardless of their type, will not be meeting at the church building during this suspension. We encourage families to set aside a time for worship and Small Group leaders to communicate with their people to determine if they would like to continue meeting in alternative locations and to utilize those times to discuss current and/or past sermons and to pray for one another, our church, the community, state and nation.
So, how do we worship during this time? Worship is a response to the work of God (Psalm 96). Worship is not bound by walls. Thus, in this season, we will be leveraging technology to tie us all together even while being apart physically. Our technology team is working to make available the Sunday morning teaching available here as usual (i.e. by Sunday afternoon).
Additionally, we are exploring other resources that can be accessed online for your worship experience. Be on the lookout for more details on that topic and future church gatherings.
We are grateful for each of you and your families and invite you to join us in prayer as we continue to rest in the peace, promises, and power of our Heavenly Father now and always. Our purpose of growing a community passionate for God and His Purposes has not changed—it will simply look a little different for now.
Service Update 3-15-2020
Over the past week there have been a number of significant developments related to what has come to be known as the Corona virus. Not only have we learned from our nation’s experts how we individually can minimize the risk of contracting the virus ourselves and for our families but also that practicing social distancing is the best way to slow the spread of COVID-19.
On March 12, 2020, NC state health officials expressly requested the cancelling of large gatherings as a cautionary step and Friday the 13th, President Trump declared a National Emergency as a result of the spread of the virus in the US.
We know there are those in our community—certainly in our own church—for whom this virus could be very serious. God has always had a heart for the vulnerable in the world (Psalm 146:9, Isaiah 25:4). As God cares for the vulnerable, so, too, do we (James 1:27) and we want to be proactive in our care.
In this specific case, we believe that our church can, and should, model submission to governmental authorities (1 Peter 2:13-25, Romans 13:1-7).
Thus, while it goes against every fiber of our being, the Elders have decided to suspend the Sunday church service and all ministry activities for the week of March 15, 2020. As the week progresses and more information becomes available, we will reassess next steps and inform you accordingly.
This means that we will not have a live worship experience on Sunday March 15. Also, all groups, regardless of their type, will not be meeting at the church building during this suspension. We encourage families to set aside a time for worship and Small Group leaders to communicate with their people to determine if they would like to continue meeting in alternative locations and to utilize those times to discuss current and/or past sermons and to pray for one another, our church, the community, state and nation.
So, how do we worship during this time? Worship is a response to the work of God (Psalm 96). Worship is not bound by walls. Thus, in this season, we will be leveraging technology to tie us all together even while being apart physically. Our technology team is working to make available the Sunday morning teaching available here as usual (i.e. by Sunday afternoon).
Additionally, we are exploring other resources that can be accessed online for your worship experience. Be on the lookout for more details on that topic and future church gatherings.
We are grateful for each of you and your families and invite you to join us in prayer as we continue to rest in the peace, promises, and power of our Heavenly Father now and always. Our purpose of growing a community passionate for God and His Purposes has not changed—it will simply look a little different for now.
Resting in His promises!
NHC Elders