Brothers and Sisters in Christ, our government once again prohibits mass gathering for two weeks (IAFT Resolution No. 104 released last March 21, 2021). The civil authorities deemed it necessary for all of us to suspend physical gathering because of the increasing COVID-19 cases in NCR, Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, and Rizal. This announcement directly affects our physical weekly gathering and even activities we’ve set for April 1 to 3.
First, let us respond by continually praying for our members who are directly affected, including their extended families, and also our countrymen who suffering economically, physically, and spiritually because of the situation. Scripture exhorts to love our neighbor as ourselves (Leviticus 19:18; Mark 12:31). So let us help in every way as God in his providence allows us to. Let us pray that the Lord continues to give us the desire to serve our neighbors especially those who are in need.
Second, we will again move back to family worship setup for the next two weeks. Each member is expected to participate in the live stream via YouTube. We will also continue with the Sunday School, Prayer meeting, and Inquirer’s Class via Zoom. May the Lord edify and comfort his people with his Word using these means.
Third, please pray for our office-bearers as we continue to face all these circumstantial challenges. May our Lord Jesus Christ lead us and provide us the strength and wisdom, and the Holy Spirit guide us towards mutual edification and spiritual maturity.
Fourth, let us pray that God in his sovereignty will direct the hearts and minds of our civil rulers (Proverbs 21:1). As Christians, we believe that church gathering is essential. Physical gatherings even in a limited sense must be maintained and should never be substituted with any virtual meetings. Let us continue to pray that they will understand how important is the Lord’s Day for God’s people as God revealed in his Word (Exodus 20:8-11; Acts 20:7; Hebrews 10:24-25).
Let us continue to take hold of God’s promises for He is our Rock and Refuge (Psalm 18:2), the strength of our hearts and our portion forever (Psalm 73:26). Let us encourage one another with these words. Amen.
ZCRC (Imus) Consistory
