Greetings Innovation Family!
As you are by now certainly aware, the last few days have been an overwhelming flood of news, updates and cancellations within our state and the city due to Coronavirus (COVID-19). I believe our response to this pandemic should not be one of fear, rather of wisdom and care for those in our churches and our communities as we consider and implement procedures that our Governing Leadership has put in place.
Our Indiana State Government has implemented a ban on gatherings of 250 or more. And while at the surface this seemingly does not apply to us, the CDC has recommended that individuals avoid close contact of group sizes of 30 or more during this time, which is also a contributing factor to the many school closures, and event cancellations we have seen throughout our city in the last 24 hours.
It’s with this information we have decided to partner with our state, county and city leadership’s recommendations to only gather in only small meetings at this time.
How long will this last?
Will you be careful to not say or post things that could potentially put down others no matter where they land on this matter? I understand that the media can spin things in such a way that it creates panic, however, there are people who are concerned because they are more vulnerable to a virus like this. Being sensitive is a healthy practice. Being fearful and panicking is not. There is a difference and I want to encourage us as a community to care about others and not just our own thoughts. Jesus spoke of the greatest commandment being that we love God and love our neighbors as we love ourselves (Mark 12:30-31). Loving others is to be mindful, active and prayerful on their behalf – that is what I am encouraging in this context and that is why we are taking some additional measures as a community of faith. We will literally be sanitizing before and after each service in order to create a safe environment for all.And Second, I want to conclude by asking you to partner with me in prayer. Please pray for the families that have lost loved ones all around the world. Pray for those who are currently sick in our city and beyond, to be healed, and pray for the miracle of the complete eradication of this sickness that is taking lives in great measure in other places. Lastly, pray for the opportunity to comfort people who are living in fear and do not have the hope and peace we have through Christ our Lord. May they see us as a servant church, full of compassion, care and love.
You are loved and it is a privilege to serve with you! Please be on the lookout on how we can serve our city, neighbors and coworkers during this time.
Let’s be the change we want to see during this time and beyond.
Billy & Mandy Holden
Pastors |Innovation