Hello,

We will not be having in person services this Sunday, December 13. We will have virtual online service. Go to Petersburg Free Methodist Church Facebook page for more information and the message. https://www.facebook.com/petersburgfmc There is a link to our web page, and a way to give your tithe or offering online also. http://www.petersburgfmc.org/

Our Board has made this decision based on love, not fear. Pike County has been classified "red," meaning we have an outbreak of COVID that is severe enough to set stronger restrictions on gatherings. Gatherings are limited to 25 people. Worship services are exempt from this limit, and we do practice a very strict policy to avoid exposing people to unnecessary risk that other places may not follow. But, we have chosen not to take advantage of our exemption. The Scriptures are full of guidance for us when we consider using our exemption:

Philippians 2:3-4 (NIV2011) Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.
1 Corinthians 8:9 (NIV2011) Be careful, however, that the exercise of your rights does not become a stumbling block to the weak.

We need to take whatever steps we can to protect those who are most at risk. We also have to consider if our exemption or liberty is seen as a lack of concern by others.

We don't know how long this outbreak will last, but with Christmas gatherings, I would imagine we will see another spike at the first of the year.

Stay connected and take advantage of the resources we have to grow closer to Jesus.

Pastor Mark