We’re all aware of the evolving situation with COVID-19 around the world. And, we’re aware that our response as a church is likely on your mind.

HERE’S WHAT WE’RE DOING AS A CHURCH STAFF

TRUSTING GOD: Viral disease is a fact of biological existence and part of creation. Keeping perspective and not panicking apply here, just as they do for all risks we face as creatures in a finite world. No matter how dire circumstances get, the Lord remains our refuge and strength, “an ever-present help in trouble” (Ps. 46:1). To trust in the Lord amid trouble is to experience and bear witness to the power of Christ.

PRAYING: We must pray for the sick and the scared, for public health officials, for doctors and nurses, for researchers, and for caregivers. As Christians, we believe prayer has power, so we seek help from the Lord.

STAYING INFORMED: The media is aflame with daily updates and it’s impossible to read, absorb and respond to every news report, Tweet, or latest rumor. We’re following a reliable list of information for educational, planning and management purposes.

• CDC on COVID-19: The US Center for Disease Control’s up-to-date resources on coronavirus.
• CDC Resources for Community and Faith-Based Organizations: The CDC has also created resources specifically for faith-based organizations to respond to influenza pandemic, which are applicable in this situation. As a church, we’re implementing this guidance.
• Managing Anxiety Around Coronavirus Coverage: The American Psychological Association created this resource to help manage anxiety around coverage of COVID-19.
• Addressing Mental Health Issues: This resource from the Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Network provides guidelines for addressing mental health issues that may arise, and offers advice for messaging, including among children, older adults, people with disabilities, and those in quarantine.

PREPARING: We are a church that believes God and the scientists and doctors he has graced us to fight this pandemic. Each week, we are following the latest information and guidance from the CDC and Sacramento County's Health Department. The health of our Life Words family and guests are a top priority. We have yet to have one case of COVID-19 in our church and we are doing everything we can to keep it that way. Since our return to in-person services on September 12, 2021, we have implemented several disease prevention strategies. Personal hygiene is very important among staff, volunteers, and participants in our services (washing hands, avoiding contact with the sick, staying home if you’re sick, and so on). We have  hand sanitizer stations, ample supplies of disinfectant wipes, and disposable gloves for cleaning crews. We’re also implementing CDC recommendations on our routine cleaning practices to include all frequently touched surfaces in workplaces, restrooms, and nurseries, including workstations, countertops, doorknobs, and toys. In addition to these practical steps, we’re also doing the following:

• MASKS ARE REQUIRED at all worship services and event inside the church building.
• We’ve established a staff team that is meeting regularly to review all of our efforts in response to COVID-19.
• We’re in direct communication with local public health officials and attending  briefings for the community.
• We’re reviewing all of our communication practices with the congregation and implementing appropriate communication when appropriate – like this webpage.
• We’re adjusting our greeting practices in our weekend services. Color-coded wristbands are available to everyone upon entering our doors. The wristbands serve as a way to respect everyone personal distance choices.

HERE’S WHAT YOU CAN DO TO HELP

1. Pray for our community and those directly affected by COVID-19. Pray for the health care workers that are treating the sick and those public health administrators making difficult decisions. Pray that God would protect our community from further spread of the virus.
2. Reflect Christ. In these anxious days, the church (all of us) can shine as a light of hope, care, faith, patience and prudence. We can demonstrate for the world how our faith provides true assurance against worry and fear.
3. Practice recommended personal hygiene. Wash your hands frequently. Avoid contact with the sick. Stay home if you’re sick and enjoy our online service or recorded sermons on our app and media page.