Here’s a brief update you on the Leadership Team’s decisions regarding re-opening Bethel for Sunday Services. At this present time we do not believe that it is wise to re-open on 7th February as hoped. As has been the case throughout this pandemic, the Leadership Team meet weekly to keep track of the national, local and church family situation.
Although we are “allowed” to meet, it does not seem consistent with the “stay at home” and “Meet only the people you live with or your support bubble” messaging that are the key requirements during this lockdown. I know this will be disappointing news to some, and a relief to others. We are grateful to hear how many of the most vulnerable in our church are now receiving vaccinations. We look ahead now to March 7th as a potential re-opening date, but will continue to assess the risks and benefits in the coming weeks.
Through all this uncertainty, thank God, we have a sure and certain hope! We who trust in Jesus have been justified! Through Jesus, we are at peace with God and can stand in his grace. We can boast because he is glorious, we have seen his glory in the face of Jesus and – one day – we will be glorified like him! So now, even whilst many of us endure these anxious times – perhaps in fear, pain, and frustration – let’s allow God to help us grow and mature in perseverance, character and hope in Him. We don’t do it alone: His love fills our hearts through his Holy Spirit in us, and we are family together – let’s make our needs known and serve one another for God’s glory.
May all your confidence be in the gospel of grace that is ours through King Jesus! E
