What a combination to start an article. Someone asked last week what has JIBC done in the past for times like this? We assured them that in my lifetime, the only National Disaster that was ever declared was 9/11. We are kind of used to hurricanes, flu outbreaks and floods. But this corona virus is a new type of experience and is living up to all of the hype it created.
I hope you heard the Governor’s message Sunday at 4:00 pm. He was extremely helpful and showed good leadership. He has assembled a good team who helped him make the tough choices for an extremely difficult time. The Governor recommended no meetings of over 100 people. The CDC came right on his heels and said the Center For Disease Control says no more than 50 people at a gathering. So many schools closed, sporting events, shows and concerts, daycares all closed. Remember, the goal is to “flatten the infection curve” by limiting the targets and to prevent the masses from getting this virus.
That is the topic of this article. We are going along with the Governor and CDC recommendation to not gather for corporate worship and other church activities. We will not have Sunday worship services for the next two weeks for sure. No Wednesday night meals, Bible Studies, Youth or Awana Missions. We are hoping and praying we will be able to resume all activities by April 5 which is Palm Sunday and hopefully by Easter! Just like schools, universities, etc, we will close and hope for the best and try to keep you as informed as we can.
Your church staff is still working every day and is available for phone calls, emergencies, etc. We have volunteers ready if anyone needs help getting groceries or medicines. You should be getting what you need right away. You need groceries and medicines. Don’t wait until the last minute. If you know someone who needs help buying groceries or picking up meds, please let us know. Call the office at 843-762-0244.
This Sunday we should have a better recording of the message for this week. Generous donations have allowed us to get the equipment we need to make this happen. We will be able to live feed services each week. For this Sunday, we will probably record it ahead of time and just have it ready for you to see.
Deep breath…hold ten seconds. Some have said that is a good indication you do not have the virus. But, I am not a doctor and I have not stayed in a Holiday Inn Express lately. The extreme adjustments we are making to our liberties are not just to protect us. It is to help those who are at risk: the elderly grandparents and great grandparents; those with compromised immune systems; those recently on chemo; etc. If we can flatten the corona virus infection curve out, we can do a wonderful service to millions.
This Sunday, I will have a sermon ready for online viewing. It will be my best response to this National Disaster known as corona virus. Plan to tune in and let us know what you think.
Pastor Tom
