Covid19 virus

Life is suddenly very different. Yesterday we asked all Synod Office staff to work remotely and I sent out a letter to all local churches in the SW Synod recommending the closure of church buildings for hirings, to protect the public, and that church communities should think hard about whether to gather for worship. Most are now closing their doors. We don't know for how long and we don't really know what church life will look like when this is over.
Instead of posting sermons here (which Ive been really bad at lately anyway!) I have decided to post some thoughts about theology and church as the situation in the UK changes and evolves.
I begin by posting the close of my letter to churches in the South Western Synod:

"Being a church is about more than just gathering for Sunday worship.
We can continue to pray together: you might like to join me in prayer each evening at 19.00 to pray for all those affected by Corvid 19; there will be news of ‘streamed’ service coming from the central URC very soon; the Daily Devotions from the URC are valued by many; and we all have our Bibles at home to read, reflect and pray.
Local churches will also be an important source of support for one another – please think about how the most vulnerable can be supported, emotionally and practically.
We can face uncertainty with faith. The people of God in the Hebrew Scriptures found their existence as God’s own people tested but ultimately reinforced by their time in the wilderness. God’s love and care is as sure for us as it was for them – we may not see the “fire and cloudy pillar” but we sing of it (in the hymn “Guide me oh thou great Redeemer”). Jesus has promised “I will be with you always” and although we may have to celebrate Easter in our homes, the truth of the resurrection of Jesus from death is undiminished by whatever we may live through. I offer this prayer for the days to come -

May God the Father hold you safe in arms of love
May Christ the risen Lord shine in your homes
And may the Holy Spirit be with you as comforter and strength. Amen.

Yours in Christ,


Ruth"

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