Dear First Presbyterian Church Family,
I hope that you have been able to keep your bodies and spirits warm during this latest polar event. One of the things that we have learned in the last 12 months is to expect the unexpected. Nevertheless, I am proud that once again First Presbyterian Church has rallied. Through the grace of Jesus Christ, we have proven that our faith is strong, our affection for one another is genuine, and our commitment to the city is authentic.
I wanted to write this afternoon to give you an update on the status of the church and to let you know that tomorrow, Sunday February 21, we will resume our regular Sunday schedule (9:00 AM Traditional service, 10:00 AM Sunday School and 11:00 AM Traditional and Contemporary services). We will also be back in business for all of our regularly scheduled and special activities beginning Monday morning.
The church sustained minimal weather damage from this storm, and we are blessed that our facilities are strong. Throughout this crisis we were prepared to become a shelter for our downtown homeless neighbors if that became necessary. Thanks to the efforts of Haven for Hope, Corazón ministries, SAMM and many others; our facilities were not needed. In the days to come, we are preparing to step into service with our ministry and mission partners as damage and needs in the community are assessed.
During the crisis, we were able to maintain contact with the congregation through numerous Zoom meetings and live streaming events. We had a good online attendance for our virtual Sunday service on Valentine’s Day. Thanks to all who attended the virtual Ash Wednesday service Wednesday evening. Your encouragement and comments have been a real blessing to me. Thanks to recent technological innovations, many people connected to Bible studies, KEYS meetings and committee meetings. I want to thank our media team for all the work that they did to make these opportunities available, in spite of the fact that they themselves were working from home without power.
As you know, many of our congregation members lost power or water service at some point over the last week. This caused hardships for many members of our congregation. We pray that as we begin to move around again, all of us will pitch in where needs present themselves. As Jesus said, “love one another as I have loved you.” We still have our “Have a Need, Fill a Need“ ministry in place for those who need assistance and connections. Please take advantage of that resource through the FPC website and app.
Psalm 46 reminds us that the Lord is sovereign over heaven and earth— over the natural as well as the supernatural world. As we move through this latest challenge, please remember that:
God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way, though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble at its swelling. (Psalm 46:1–3)
Grace and peace,
.
