Dear River Valley Family:
While we are highly grateful to God for the
favor showed to us during this spring and summer of mostly wonderful weather, the leadership of River
Valley is thankful that we can announce the resumption of indoor worship
services on Sunday, September 20. This resumption relies totally on the
City of Watertown remaining in Phase 2 or 3 of its reopening plan.
As we move forward toward this happy day, we
must remember these extremely important goals which were stated from the very
beginning of our response to this pandemic…
1. We
will stay on mission and make disciples!
Matthew 28:19-20
Therefore, go and make disciples of all the
nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy
Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given
you.
2. We
will strive for the protection of everyone… especially our most vulnerable.
Matthew 25:40
“And the King will say, ‘I tell you the truth,
when you did it to one of the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were
doing it to me!’”
3. We
will please Jesus in every decision and action.
2 Corinthians 5:9
So whether we are here in this body or away from
this body, our goal is to please him.
4. In
this climate of polarization, we will preserve the unity of our church family
and resolve conflict for the glory of God.
John 13:35
Your love for one another will prove to the
world that you are my disciples.”
The leadership of River Valley recognizes that
there is a vast array of opinions on how this pandemic should be handled.
Absolutely nothing in Phase 1 or 2 of this plan is being done out of fear… that
would be sinful. Our goal is only to lower the risk of exposure for all,
allow as much freedom of choice as possible, and hopefully help all feel
comfortable.
Blessings!
Pastor Dave