Grace News 3/23/2020
The word of God assures our hearts and calms our fears. It reminds us of this precious truth: “For the Lord God is a sun and shield; the Lord bestows favor and honor. No good thing does he withhold from those who walk uprightly.” (Psalm 84:11). The days are trying, but the mercies of the Lord will never cease.
We just went through the most bizarre weekend in any of our lifetimes. And yet by God’s grace, we have come through it. The Lord has brought us through. The live stream on Sunday went very well, I thought. There were some minor issues, which we expected, and which we intend to address in the future. However, all in all it was a good start. Most importantly we had the opportunity to preach the word of God and to hear the word of God. Your many encouraging words were an encouragement to me.
Sunday afternoon your elders met to discuss how best to navigate the times in which we are living, in terms of ministry. One of the determinations we made is to move forward with our weekly times of instruction, fellowship, and prayer through online technology. That means resuming Learning and Leaning on Wednesdays at 7 pm and GCF groups on Sunday morning at 9 am. Other meetings may follow. We will keep you informed so please monitor your email and check with the blog tab on the church website.
The online tool we will be using is called Zoom and is readily available to anyone with a smart phone, tablet, or personal computer. There is no cost to you, the user and a minimal cost to the church. We do not want you to feel overwhelmed over the use of new technology and will work with you to assure that you are comfortable. This article will be followed by another from Rick Ellis which will provide instructions. This technology will not replace being together physically, but I think you will be impressed with how well it will work and how easy it is to use.
For those who do not possess technological devices or internet, there is still a way to be connected. There is a call-in number which you can use to be connected by phone. The number is 1 (312) 626-6799. It is a Chicago number. The meeting ID is: 744 663 3702.
Please note that help is available for set up and use. If you have questions about getting started, Rick Ellis, Doug Ferrell, and Grace Anne Ellis will be available to provide technical support. In addition, Rick will be opening an on line meeting tomorrow evening from 6:30 to 7:30 so you can try out your connection and the operation of ZOOM.
The situation in which we find ourselves is still developing and we will remain in touch. The times are trying, but keep in mind this hopeful word from Psalm 85:12: “Yes, the Lord will give what is good, and our land will yield its increase.” Let us rest in Our Faithful Provider.
We just went through the most bizarre weekend in any of our lifetimes. And yet by God’s grace, we have come through it. The Lord has brought us through. The live stream on Sunday went very well, I thought. There were some minor issues, which we expected, and which we intend to address in the future. However, all in all it was a good start. Most importantly we had the opportunity to preach the word of God and to hear the word of God. Your many encouraging words were an encouragement to me.
Sunday afternoon your elders met to discuss how best to navigate the times in which we are living, in terms of ministry. One of the determinations we made is to move forward with our weekly times of instruction, fellowship, and prayer through online technology. That means resuming Learning and Leaning on Wednesdays at 7 pm and GCF groups on Sunday morning at 9 am. Other meetings may follow. We will keep you informed so please monitor your email and check with the blog tab on the church website.
The online tool we will be using is called Zoom and is readily available to anyone with a smart phone, tablet, or personal computer. There is no cost to you, the user and a minimal cost to the church. We do not want you to feel overwhelmed over the use of new technology and will work with you to assure that you are comfortable. This article will be followed by another from Rick Ellis which will provide instructions. This technology will not replace being together physically, but I think you will be impressed with how well it will work and how easy it is to use.
For those who do not possess technological devices or internet, there is still a way to be connected. There is a call-in number which you can use to be connected by phone. The number is 1 (312) 626-6799. It is a Chicago number. The meeting ID is: 744 663 3702.
Please note that help is available for set up and use. If you have questions about getting started, Rick Ellis, Doug Ferrell, and Grace Anne Ellis will be available to provide technical support. In addition, Rick will be opening an on line meeting tomorrow evening from 6:30 to 7:30 so you can try out your connection and the operation of ZOOM.
The situation in which we find ourselves is still developing and we will remain in touch. The times are trying, but keep in mind this hopeful word from Psalm 85:12: “Yes, the Lord will give what is good, and our land will yield its increase.” Let us rest in Our Faithful Provider.
-- Pastor Ross