Dear Grace Church Family,

Due to our care and love for our congregants, we will continue our policy of social distancing through May 2020. This is a difficult time for many, but we are up to the challenge of sheltering in place. We can stay connected through social media, phone calls and notes through the mail. “We always give thanks for all of you and continually mention you in our prayers. We remember before our God and Father your work produced faith, your labor prompted love and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.” Paul wrote these words to the church in Thessalonica around 2000 years ago. They seem deeply relevant today. Our faith has produced a love and endurance that will carry us through the most difficult challenges ahead. We have already been carried thus far, we continue to persevere under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. The early church faced significant hardships and difficulties as they tried to share the Good News. In the face of adversity the church did not shrink or shy away. They stood boldly and proclaimed the name of Jesus. Even though we are distanced, we can still make an impact of the lives of those we with whom we are deeply connected. 

Paul encouraged all believers to pray without ceasing. Pray the Lord’s Prayer daily. Send your petitions to God, in the name of Jesus and in the power of the Holy Spirit. Please know that your pastors are lifting you all up in prayer. By now we probably all know someone who has be diagnosed with the coronavirus. They are our loved ones, family members or friends. We mourn with those who mourn, we rejoice with those who rejoice. And we pray without ceasing. 

If you have occasion, please reach out to your neighbors and loved ones. A simple act of kindness can brighten someone’s day. Fear and sadness are two things we should never suffer through alone. Listen to the prompting of the Holy Spirit. If God places a name on your heart, please reach out to that person as soon as possible. Let God direct your steps and light your way. We do not know how long we will be distanced, but we know that we are all connected through the Holy Spirit. There will be a day when we gather together again in person. All of us long and hope for that day. Continue to pray for those in need and those suffering. 

If you or someone you know is running low on necessities, please contact kelly@grace4all.org or donna@grace4all.org. Our church is always ready to help those in need. Watch the newsletter and Facebook page for updates on how you can help make a difference in our community.

The best way to watch online is through our Facebook page or Livestream.

 www.livestream.com/graceumc

www.facebook.com/grace4allLS
 

We also request that you make sure to keep your tithe up to date, as we still have financial obligations in the midst of this crisis. You may donate online at:

www.easytithe.com/gracels

Peace,

Pastor Jeremy