We want to care for our congregation in all aspects, including the physical well-being of our community. To that end, we are asking you, our congregants, to take precautions to keep yourself and others safe, especially considering recent developments with the coronavirus (COVID-19).
Please be mindful of the guidance from the Florida Department of Health and the CDC, including: staying home when you are sick, washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, and respecting social distances and limiting contact with those around you in public places.
While we are continuing to hold services as scheduled, we ask that you use discretion regarding attendance. If you are sick, have a compromised immune system, or are uncomfortable for any reason, please make the choice that is best for you personally. For those unable to join us in-person for worship, we will continue to post sermons to our website on Monday afternoons. Messages can be viewed by clicking on the “Recent Sermons” button on our homepage.
All weekly Bible studies are also continuing until further notice. The status of special events, such as concert and Bonita Christian Forum speakers, will be updated on our website calendar and through our Facebook events if any cancellations occur.
As this is an evolving situation, our staff will meet weekly to determine our plans for the upcoming weekend services and the website will be updated on Wednesday afternoons with new information. Updates may be found here: This Weekend at First Church. If the state or local governments mandate the canceling of public events, we will send another email and update the website letting you know our plans for worshiping together remotely.
The uncertainty of this outbreak is creating anxiety for many, yet we remain certain of God’s steadfast presence and careful attention to all that is happening. Please join us in praying for those who are affected by this illness, as well as their caregivers and those who are working around the clock to minimize the impact of this virus.
In Psalm 46, we are reminded that it is God who is our refuge and strength, and our ever-present help in trouble. Therefore, let us not fear, but with confidence use this opportunity to be the hands and feet of Jesus through our prayers and our care for others.
In Christ,
Pastor Doug Pratt