“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” John 14:27

Dear Members and Friends,

I greet you in the precious name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Recent news about the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) has raised concerns for many of us for the wellbeing of people across the world and potentially in our communities as well.  In response, our Bishop Thomas J. Bickerton asked all the churches in NYAC not to hold public services of worship for the next two weeks.

Our hope and prayer was that our appropriate concern for public health and well-being in our communities does not diminish our full participation in worship and community life together.  But, unfortunately, the situation is getting worse day by day.  We are now in uncertain times.  Such a time as this, we need a strong leadership.  I believe, as United Methodists, we should follow our Episcopal Leader and respect his authority.

I trust in God’s continuing care for all in response to this health challenge before us.  Please, join me praying for all who are affected by this disease.  God be with those who grieve, are ill, isolated and afraid, and the many people involved in medical and emergency care.  Jesus speaks often in the Gospels the words of promise: “Do not be afraid.”  

We are called to reassure others in this same promise.  Let us be more mindful to be witnesses of hope, encouragement, generosity, patience and prayer.  Rather than being controlled by fear and allowing alarmist attitudes to dictate our everyday lives, we must be a beacon of hope and thoughtful composure for our neighbors and our world.

Let us be faithful and vigilant in our prayer for those nations, communities, families and individuals most affected by this outbreak, and for the medical personnel and government officials seeking to respond.

Above all, let us remember and rejoice that “nothing in life or in death can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Rom. 8:38–39).

With gratitude for each of you and your leadership, and with confidence in the steadfast love and grace of Jesus Christ,

Pastor Tom