Dear City Road Chapel family,
As you likely know, recent concerns about the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak have been before us and your church leaders are taking the threat seriously. While we are certainly not panicking, we do recognize that having a congregation with a high percentage of at-risk attendees means that we need to put in place the best practices for controlling the spread of the infection in worship and at church events.
Tonight our Worship Leadership Team will be meeting at 6 p.m. in the church library to finalize our plans for changes in worship to help keep all safe. Many of the recommended practices we already engage in, but there will likely be changes in how we do some things based on the recommendations of public health officials. Due to this meeting, I am canceling our Vespers gathering tonight.
Although we are still finalizing the details, one change that may surprise you involves the passing of the offering plates. It is difficult at best to ensure the plates are germ-free, and the simple act of handing the plates from one to another is an infection hazard. We will continue to take an offering, but will likely be asking all to do it in a different way that doesn’t involve the passing of the plates.
While I know that many of you are uncomfortable with on-line giving, the fact is that giving on-line, through a bank draft or credit card, is secure and is the most germ-free means we have of receiving donations. These donations are automatically entered into your church account, and Vanco (the company which handles our online financial transactions) is known for its high level of security. You can set up your gift at https://cityroadchapel.org/give and if you need assistance please let me know.
One last note. Of course, the Centers for Disease Control have been urging folks to wash their hands with soap and water frequently for at least 20 seconds. I discovered that singing the Doxology (Praise God from whom all blessings flow…) one time through is right at 20 seconds, so if you need a timer, remember to sing praises to God in all circumstances.
If you have any questions or concerns, please email me at jvoorhees@cityroadchapel.org.
May God’s grace and peace be with you all!
Jay