The news has been filled with details regarding the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19). As of this writing, there are no confirmed cases in western Pennsylvania, but we want to be vigilant for the safety and well-being of our church and surrounding communities. Toward that end, here’s what we are doing at Pathway to provide a safe environment.
1. We are trusting God
As children of God, we must remain on alert, but not give ourselves over to undo worry, anxiety and fear. Instead, Jesus calls us to respond with prayer, courage and faith in Him. We are praying for our church family and our surrounding communities. We’re also asking God to protect us and help us to be a blessing to those around us. We want to honor God in all we say and do.
2. We are still gathering together
We believe gathering together at church is incredibly valuable and should be a priority. We are under no restrictions to continue meeting for our regular services or other ministry gatherings. The potential of being exposed to the virus in our region is very low. However, if you are a senior citizen or fall into another potential high-risk category, you may wish to remain at home and watch the sermon online. Should a time come when we are not able to gather for services, we will provide an entire worship experience for you online. Also, if you are displaying symptoms, we encourage you to stay home.
3. We will communicate with you
As some circumstances change moment by moment, we may have to alter programming on short notice. When appropriate, we will send email updates, but we also encourage you to check our website (www.lifeatpathway.com) and download our church app for timely details. We also encourage you to stay informed about the virus through local, state and federal agencies.
4. We are taking extra precautions
Our facilities team has always been diligent to provide a spotless environment for all who enter our buildings, but at this time we are taking extra care to sanitize bathrooms, classrooms and other gathering spaces on our campuses. This includes sterilizing toys/games/books and wiping down children’s classrooms after every class, sterilizing the Playland, frequently wiping down doorknobs, countertops and other surfaces, providing hand sanitizer at welcome desks, and more.
5. We welcome online giving and hands-free offering
If we are unable to meet, or if attendance decreases through this circumstance, giving is likely to decrease as well. To assist us in continuing to meet our commitments, we invite you to consider using our online giving options at www.lifeatpathway.com/give. Online giving options also are available through the Pathway app. Should you prefer to bring your offering to church, we will be receiving the offering through receptacles located in the auditorium rather than passing the buckets.
6. We can be friendly without touching
As always, we encourage you to connect with others, but for the sake of those who are cautious about the contact, we invite you to do so without shaking hands or hugging, at least for the time being.
7. We encourage excellent hygiene
Please wash your hands thoroughly and regularly. If you have to cough or sneeze, please use a tissue or the inside of your elbow and cover your mouth to keep any germs from escaping. Remember that the coronavirus spreads before people become symptomatic. Good habits like these will keep you from passing on germs you may not be aware you have.
Please join us in praying for our church and community as we navigate these unusual days. Also be in prayer for families who have been impacted through exposure. Ask God to provide His grace and peace.
In prayer and trust,
Pastor Jeff