COVID Update for November 20, 2020

Dear Blainsport Church Family,

COVID-19 numbers reported by the Pennsylvania Department of Health continue to rise at an alarming rate. The department reports significant increases in the number of COVID-19 cases among all age groups, not limited to older generations. Admittedly, contracting the disease does not automatically mean that death is imminent. However, it does mean that hospitals are likely to become overwhelmed by daily new cases, and certainly, death rates will increase. This is simply the reality we must face at this time.

As a church family, we never want to find ourselves in a situation where we have to close our doors again so that everyone can isolate. The “church closing” of 2020 was one of the darkest periods in our church history. If there is a way to avoid shutting down in the future and remain biblically faithful at the same time, we should take such steps.

At Blainsport, we made some adjustments to be able to gather on Sunday mornings. Without question, our efforts have been minimal and frankly very relaxed. Wanting to honor the discretion and dignity of every person has been our goal. It has worked, and there is no reason to believe that each of us will not do our best to honor and protect each other during this difficult time.

We can work together in the weeks ahead by wearing face coverings and spacing more intentionally. We will not get this perfect, but taking a few easy steps could yield some beneficial results. Wearing a mask while moving around inside the church can go a long way. Also, sitting in church pews marked at the end of the bench by blue tape is an easy way of “distancing.” Avoiding handshakes and hugs has already become part of our routine. Youth and Children’s ministries can work to find more accommodating spaces in the church during Sunday school.

This type of letter and repeated announcements will hopefully not become a regular part of church life. Once in a while, however, it is good to remind ourselves of some ways we can respond to COVID-19 together as a church family. We do not plan to police each other in our efforts, nor will we shame one another, but rather show respect and kindness to all. Our mission at Blainsport is to create a life-giving environment where people can grow closer to Christ. That is the priority, and we should make an effort to do that in safe surroundings.
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Serving Christ together,
--Eric, on behalf of the Leadership Team