Dear Town Church family,

I would like to give you an update in light of all the discussion surrounding the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19). First, I want to declare that we believe that our God will carry us through this trial as he has done in every other season and situation since the creation of the world. He is always faithful. God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. (Psalm 46:1) This is crucial to remember as the next few weeks unfold. As those who follow Jesus, we have been given the privilege of choosing and living in peace rather than panic.

As we witness the current events regarding this outbreak, we as a church want to lead with an abundance of caution rather than reacting in an abundance of fear. We believe in and worship a God who is mighty and sovereign over all things including viruses, disease and death. Cultivating a Godward perspective is what will ground our hope and inform our response. This is not the first crisis of its kind, nor will it be the last, until Christ returns and restores all things.

In seeking to be wise and discerning as circumstances change daily, here is our current plan:

PRAY

Times like this draw our attention to the fragility of life (James 4:14). It reminds us of our weakness and need for a Savior (2 Corinthians 12:9). Therefore, with these truths reigning in our hearts, we pray to the Father in heaven for ourselves, each other and the world. Pray for our leaders, wisdom, healing, treatment/cure/vaccine, safety, provisions and the final cry of our hearts is, “Come, Lord Jesus!” (Revelation 22:20)

GATHERINGS

After monitoring the latest news and updates from local authorities and the CDC, our leadership team has decided that we will be gathering together on Sunday, March 15. In addition to sanitizing commonly touched surfaces, we will not be sharing in communion together or making coffee available. Our children's ministry will also be taking extra precautions.

As we continue to monitor the progress of the COVID-19 virus, we will keep the Town Church family updated on our plans moving forward. If the situation surrounding the virus continues to escalate, we will evaluate future gatherings and be looking for new opportunities to serve our church and community.

VIRTUAL GATHERING

If we do decide to cancel Sunday gatherings in the future, we will institute some kind of virtual gathering on Sunday mornings. Check our Facebook www.facebook.com/thetownchurch and our website for ongoing updates.

CAUTION

Public health experts say people who are at higher risk of illness including (1) those over 60, (2) anyone who has underlying health conditions, such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, diabetes, chronic liver disease, blood disorders, or (3) those with weakened immune systems should remain at home as much as possible. For more information, please visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/specific-groups/high-risk-complications.html#who-is-higher-risk

For those who are recommended to stay home, there is an opportunity for others in the church to care for them by running errands, shopping, etc. If you are willing to help out with this or if you are someone who needs help, please email us at info@thetownchurch.com

ILLNESS

If you or a family member has a runny nose, cough, fever, or other respiratory difficulties, we ask you to stay home and do not attend any church-related activities such as Sunday gatherings or Gospel Community events until you are fever and symptom free for at least 24 hours.

If you have any questions, or if you are diagnosed with the virus, please email us at info@thetownchurch.com. Our desire is to love, care and pray for our church body and we will make every effort to extend care and help you should you become ill.

As we move forward, our chief goal is to love God and love our neighbor. This conviction will inform our decisions and direct our path as a church.

While these are troubling days, I truly believe that they are an opportunity for us to powerfully declare and display the good news of Jesus to those around us. So keep loving one another. Keep asking for opportunities to love and serve our neighbors. Keep your eyes on Jesus. May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship and communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all. (2 Corinthians 13:14)

In the hope of Christ,

Pastor Nate Downey

The Town Church