Message from Pastor Hoffman
Grace and peace to you in the name of Jesus Christ,
I have honestly lost count of how many times I have said something like “this feels so strange” in the last few days. And I imagine many of you have said or at least felt the same. These are extraordinary (and for some–very difficult) times in which we are living.
As we face the reality of the true impact of the coronavirus on our communities, nation, and world the church (you and me) is presented with both challenge and opportunity. We are and will be challenged to find ways to be the church to one another and to the larger world that are different than our normal ways of operating.
At its meeting last night (via Zoom) the session voted to close the church building to all groups/programs/ministries as well as worship through March 31st. The session also decided to meet again on March 30th to reevaluate and possibly extend the closure.
During this time, we are dedicated to offering some form of online worship experience on the Sundays we will not be gathering in person, so please be on the lookout for specifics. It will be different, but it will be good. The form of worship does not matter as much as the heart of worship. I trust our hearts will still be in whatever we choose to do.
Not meeting in person does not mean we cannot meet, of course. So, if you lead or are involved in a committee/study/program/ministry I encourage you to consider alternative ways of “meeting” (email, conference all, video conference, etc.) If you have questions about these options, please feel free to reach out and I will be happy to share what I know.
We will also be challenged to maintain relationships with one another. We are used to seeing each other on Sunday mornings, Wednesday evenings, weekday mornings, and other times. That will not be the case for the next few weeks, but it doesn’t mean we cannot maintain those relationships we cherish. Many of us now have the gift of time we don’t often have and so we can spend some of that time really tending to those relationships in significant ways. Make a call. Write a note. Send an email.
Of course, this is also an excellent opportunity to tend to our spiritual health as well. Pick up that bible and read it. Enter into prayer more frequently and stay there longer. Start a prayer journal. Read a good book about faith. Listen to an inspirational or thought-provoking podcast. Discover a new Christian musician or band. As you do so, you may well find a peace that you need in these anxious times.
Finally, regardless of our ability to be together face-to-face I am still your pastor and am honored to be so. I am here for you. Should you need to talk and or pray I am only a phone call or videoconference away. Please do not hesitate to reach out. Pastor.hoffman@cmpcusa.org Office: 410-997-8011 Cell: 412-760-7600
More information will follow, so please keep an eye on your email. Blessings!
“Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” Matthew 11: 28-30
Peace in Christ,
Rev. Scott W. Hoffman