SUNDAY SERVICE UPDATE
OUR Response to COVID-19
By now everyone is well aware of the fast-changing situation with the COVID-19 virus. There are travel bans, closures, and cancellations that have created more questions than answers and left many wondering how this will impact Experience Church.
For several days, we (Pastors Jonathan & Natasha) have been talking with members of the leadership team about our best steps forward. We have resisted posting too quickly because of how rapidly the situation is changing. We wanted to come to you with as much information as possible and present a plan moving forward.
According to Alberta Health Services, as of Friday, March 13th at 7 pm, the risk of catching COVID-19 is considered low (less than 1 in 150,000). However, we have all witnessed how fast things are changing and want to make sure we do our part to keep our EC family and friends safe. The Calgary Board of Education has suspended rentals for a while, which includes our North Campus, and the Province is advising that public assemblies be limited to 250 people or less.
SUNDAY, MARCH 15TH
WE ARE NOT HOLDING PHYSICAL CHURCH SERVICES THIS WEEKEND. WE WILL BE DOING A SPECIAL ONLINE - ONLY SERVICE THIS SUNDAY.
In a time when it would be so easy to disconnect, we are passionate about staying connected to one another and excited about what God has planned for us. Space doesn’t mean separation… we can stay in relationship even as we work together to stop COVID-19 in its tracks.
what can you do now:
+ Join us for our 9:15 am or 11:15 am Online – Only service.
We’re going to be continuing our ‘The Becoming’ series so take a break from your news feed and stop the social scroll to have some time with Jesus. Go to www.experiencechurch.ca/live
+ Invite a friend
But seriously… sharing our feed on your social media is a great way to get others to turn hysteria into hope. Let’s point people to Jesus.
+ Stay Connected
Check your e-mail and @eccalgary social feeds regularly. Things are changing from day to day and week to week and we want to keep you in the loop.
+ Consider online giving
More than 80% of the EC family already take advantage of our online giving options. As we get ready to step into this season of uncertainty let’s remain in a posture of generosity. During our Online-Only service we will be rolling out a creative way that our Outreach Ministries will be serving the city during this time and we are excited for you to participate. Why not get set up for online giving now at www.experiencechurch.ca/giving-online
+ We're Better together
Many of our EC Groups will continue to meet during this season. These will be happening at the discretion of our group leaders with very strict guidelines to protect the health of those in attendance.
In conclusion, let’s remember what it says in John 1:12: ‘Yet to all who did receive him, and to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.’
We have been given the right (access, opportunity) to become children of God. We do not need to become fearful, anxious or overwhelmed when we have Christ and His Spirit living in us. Simply put, we are protected, covered, and cared for by our Heavenly Father. This is a challenging season for so many, but we’re praying and believing God’s absolute peace to be with each of you. As a church, we will not back down or shrink back. Our methods change, but we will continue to do everything we can so everyone can come to Jesus.
We trust together that Romans 8:28 will show itself true in each of our lives.
‘God causes all things to work together for the good of those who love him.’
Love you all!
Pastors Jonathan and Natasha