Dear friends,

Pastor Joe here. By now you are all aware that the World Health Organization has declared the COVID-19 outbreak to be a pandemic, and that the BC Minister of Health is recommending that all gatherings of 250 people or more be cancelled. Many of you have probably been wondering what this means for us at Bethel (being a church of less than 250 people).

After prayerful consideration, I, along with the leadership of the church have decided to continue to meet this Sunday at our regular time. We are being diligent to limit the chance of infection by:

  • sanitizing high traffic areas
  • Having hand sanitizer stations
  • suspending refreshments (bring your own coffee)
  • and instructing all of our volunteers and staff to avoid physical contact.  

We will continue to monitor this situation closely, and adjust our response accordingly. There is a very real possibility that we will move to an online expression in the coming week or weeks. While, we recognize that “God has not given us a Spirit of fear”, we also want to be cautious and set an example to our community of love and respect.

I know that these are uncertain times, but we can take courage from Psalm 46; “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” While it may be tempting to give into fear and stalk up on toilet paper, hand sanitizer and non-perishables, remember that throughout the ages, followers of Jesus have responded in times of difficulty by blessing and not taking. 

I love you all and am looking forward to seeing you on Sunday. If you are concerned about gathering with us, that is OK, I want to encourage you to listen to the sermon online later in the week and to stay connected to your Bethel community throughout the week.

Please continue to pray with us for all of those affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

I’ll see you around town. 

 

Pastor Joe