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Church,

This is an interesting time for churches across America as coronavirus continues to spread. In our city is every position on coronavirus, from “All of this is such an overreaction,” to “Go buy toilet paper and cans of beanie-weenie! Things are getting real!” – and everything in between. So some are going to feel like the following is an overreaction, and others will feel like this isn’t enough. The goal is really to simply exercise common sense and precaution commensurate to the actual threat of COVID-19. 

The following are measures that we (and others) are taking for this upcoming Lord’s day:

  1. We will not have greeters in the doorway handing out worship guides. Instead the guides will be on the tables for you to take as you come in.
  2. We will not pass the offering plate during the service. This week, ushers will be stationed at the exits following the service. They will have a plate in their hand for you to drop in your offering and connection cards. In subsequent weeks we anticipate having a locked box at the back for you to do this. Alternatively, online giving is always available through our website: emmanueltuscaloosa.org and click “Give Online” at the very top.
  3. For the time being, let’s also avoid handshakes and fist bumps, and opt instead for verbal greetings. 

In addition to these things, we would ask that you exercise appropriate caution. Just like any other time of year, if you are feeling sick we ask that you stay at home. We are currently looking at ways we might be able to make the worship service available to people who have to remain at home during this time. Live streaming is, of course, not church (regardless of how many churches do it) since there is no way for you to realistically edify others in the church, have them edify you, receive the Lord’s supper should there be any, etc. from your couch – all of which are fundamental to the gathering of Christ’s body. However, it would at least allow you to hear the gospel preached, even while away. For this unusual time in our community, we’re looking into ways we might make that available, but I cannot guarantee when and if that will be available.

As always, take all of the reasonable precautions that are always recommended during flu season so as to avoid the unnecessary spreading of germs (washing hands, etc.). While I’m sure none of us wants the coronavirus, we want to exercise caution not out of fear, but because we want to love our neighbor – particularly the aged who are seeing the highest mortality rates. 

As I said, some may feel this is an overreaction, and others may feel this is not enough. Regardless, let’s love our neighbors and outdo one another in honor by using common sense, while at the same time showing confidence that the savior we serve has given to us eternal life!I love you all and hope to see you on Sunday.

Michael