Dear church family,

After much prayer and counsel from many sources that I have come to trust, I believe it is in the best interest of everyone that we suspend in-person services for a short period of time.  I feel this is the most loving thing we can do for our spiritual family and for our community at this time. I will still be sharing a weekly message via internet and I hope you will tune in. (www.crosspointchurchonline.org)

While we are not meeting in person, I want to encourage you all to increase your contact with other Crosspointers, especially by phone, so we can hear each other’s voices.  Of course texting, email and facebook may also be good options. We just need to keep in touch.

The disaster relief people are still working on the meal delivery ministry and we’ll share that info as we get it.  Please let someone know if you have a need. Although limited by the circumstances, we want to do what we can. 

I’m praying lots of good will come from this time of trial. Although dealing with all the virus-related issues is so overwhelming, please be aware that we have Crosspointers dealing with additional problems creating another layer of complexity for them and adding greatly to their stress. I’ll be doing a funeral for one of our families, the Sinkovets, Monday. (I’ll try to get you an address for sending a card.)  Also, I have gotten calls from some who are now out of work. Others are still recuperating from surgery and or unrelated health challenges.  This is a time to pray. Call and let someone hear your voice praying for them, even if you have to leave it on their voicemail. 

This is a time to pull together. Let God and His Word be your anchor in this storm.  Remember God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in our time of trouble. (Psalm 46:1)  Cast all your cares on Him because He cares for you. (1Peter 5:7)  I know it looks like a long road ahead, but I pray soon this will be in the past.

Our church family tends to be extremely generous in their tithes and offerings. This fact brings me comfort as we are very aware of the ongoing church expenses even while we are not meeting.  Our church stewardship team has met and they are implementing measures to conserve church resources during this time.  We are freezing all non-essential spending temporarily until further notice. There are at least three ways to continue to give: click the donate button on our website, www.crosspointchurchonline.org, where you’ll have a choice of Paypal, credit, or debit card; or you can set up a payment through your bank’s bill-pay service; or simply mail a check to the church.   Thank you very much, this is very appreciated.  Donations to the Blessing Box can be placed directly in the box or if you’re bringing a large amount, it may be better to bring it between 9 and 11 AM when John is in the office, so some of it can be stored inside. 

Look for opportunities to share Christ. I think a lot of people are, and will be, looking for answers. (We have some great resources on www.sbc.net/knowjesus)  Pray for the sick and for all those ministering to them. Pray for the well, that they stay well. Pray for our president and other elected officials, national and local. Pray for our first responders and volunteers. The list goes on and on.  

Please know I am praying for you and your loved ones.  I love you. We will make it through this together. 

Pastor Sam