Dear Algiers United Methodist Church Family,
One of the reasons I love Algiers United Methodist Church so deeply is because of the warmth of this congregation – from your gracious hospitality to your compassionate response to the needs of all people. You remind me that we are at our best when we hold ourselves accountable to the practice of hospitality and compassion, because when we do, we recognize that life is much larger than ourselves.
The health and safety of those who are the most vulnerable in our community is our highest priority right now. The rapid spread of coronavirus COVID-19 is a public health crisis that has the potential to overwhelm our healthcare system and community resources, which can disproportionately affect those who are most vulnerable.
After prayerful consideration, our church leadership has decided that the wisest course of action is to suspend worship and all church activities effective immediately. This decision was not made lightly. It came from the recommendation of Bishop Harvey, the appeal from our President and Governor, and according to the guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
This means that we will not be holding worship in-person at least throughout the month of March – meaning no in-person worship on March 22nd or 29th. We will monitor the situation closely and determine whether the suspension of activities needs to be extended. We will be worshiping at our regular time via Facebook Live on the Algiers United Methodist Church’s Facebook Page – which can be accessed through this link even if you don’t have a Facebook account. https://www.facebook.com/Algiers-United-Methodist-Church-113954615302400/ and scroll to the video.
All on-site activities, including worship, Sunday school, bible study, Mother’s Day Out, etc. are cancelled during this time frame. I will be working remotely and will be looking for creative ways to keep the congregation connected using various forms of communication.
Even though we aren’t gathering in-person at the church doesn’t mean that we can’t still be the church. Remember to check in with those who are at risk and to pray for those most affected by this pandemic – especially our leaders and health care workers. I invite you to pause everyday at noon to pray for our church and for those affected by the coronavirus.
In these times we are reminded of the words of Joshua 1:9, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
Grace and peace,
Colleen