Hi, Rock Church Family!
As you know, life is changing constantly in our world right now — and that includes everything here at The Rock Church! This is our update to you on some decisions and changes that will be taking place at our weekend services.
These decisions and changes are the result of the survey so many of you filled out (thank you), much prayer, counsel from other churches and input from government agencies.
There are two videos in this post — please watch them to “see” everything we’re talking about. The second video carefully explains the pastoral reasoning behind our newest mask policy and a call for grace.
Reminders for THIS weekend — October 3 & 4:
- Sunday Service is moving back inside
- Children’s Ministry Classes: Nursery through Kindergarten
- Service Times: 6:00 p.m. (Sat.), 9:30 & 11:15 a.m. (Sun.) / 1 hour format
- Coffee: Served to you!
- Chairs: Social distanced (self-regulate in rows)
- Masks:
- This weekend: Adventureland Room is for REQUIRED masks. It will be a livestream service.
- Starting October 10 & 11 – Masks will be REQUIRED at our First Service (9:30 a.m.) on Sundays.
To mask or not to mask, that is NOT the question!
The real question is – will I love my brother or sister, regardless of their mask convictions?
Many people have very definite opinions and beliefs about masks. We’ve truly tried to listen to what everyone has shared and value your input. As there are strong opinions and emotions on both sides of the argument, we’ve worked to develop a creative solution for the best way to “fix” this situation, for right now. Starting October 11, we will require masks at our First Service only (9:30 a.m.). All other services will be masks encouraged.
Three Options for Attending our Weekend Services:
- No Social Distancing/No masks (You can stay at home and watch the livestream or recorded video.)
- Social Distancing/Masks Encouraged (Saturday Night & Sunday Second Service (11:15 a.m.))
- Social Distancing/Masks Required (Sunday First Service (9:30 a.m.)—starting October 11) – We will gently remind you to put your mask on if it’s off.
We Are In A War
I have noticed that with strong opinions come strong reactions. Especially regarding this mask issue. This shouldn’t surprise us because we are in a war. There is a very real battle raging within our society, our culture and the Church. It’s NOT a battle against COVID-19, masks, politics or people. It’s a spiritual war and we are fighting against the devil and his army (Ephesians 6).
As God’s people, we need to be aware of the war that is raging around us (and will no doubt get worse). More importantly, we need to respond with grace and be confident of God’s ultimate victory!
Please don’t let the devil get a foothold or divide us. Your pastors are well informed and feel like we’ve struck a good balance with this current plan. We would love your prayers and grace as we continue to make decisions.
Remember, our battle is NOT against each other, it’s spiritual. We will get through this. Let’s give grace and love one another.
United with you,
Bill
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