Dear Heartwood Family and Friends,
“Don’t be surprised or shocked that you are going through testing that is like walking through fire. Be glad for the chance to suffer as Christ suffered. It will prepare you for even greater happiness when He makes His glorious return.”
(1 Peter 4:12-13)
This year has been marked by fear and uncertainty. We have all been impacted in one way or another by COVID-19. Churches and businesses, including senior living facilities, have been shut down or locked down. Amid all this, violence and riots have spread across our metro area and our country, further increasing anxiety.
But God is still at work!
Heartwood Church has been privileged to continue ministering to our community in various ways despite the turmoil: partnering in Red Cross blood drives; donating supplies to Tubman and New Life Family Services; distributing masks to local businesses; and hosting a Community Health Day. God has also brought new families into our midst and presented us with new opportunities to support His work in other countries. We believe God is going to do great things through all of us! Yet, one important part is lacking: YOU.
We miss you, and long to see you face-to-face.
In preparation for your return, we are following CDC guidelines: adapting worship elements, cleaning and sanitizing the building, and practicing physical distancing as well as providing hand sanitizer and masks for those who need them.
Our doors have been re-open for worship services since June 7th.
“On arrival, they got the church together and reported in detail how God had used them, throwing open the door of faith so people of all nations could come streaming in.”
(Acts 14:27)
God has generously provided this year through your faithful giving, and most of our financial obligations have been met. Our faith has been challenged, but we are heartened, knowing that God will supply every need according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:19). We are celebrating God’s faithfulness to us during a “Victory March” each Sunday morning, bringing our tithes, offerings, prayers and ourselves to Him. We want everyone to participate – even online through Tithe.ly or Venmo.
We invite you to join us!
The improvement of our virtual presence has been a blessing, and we will continue to use online platforms. However, as a family, we prefer to meet in person – and being with God’s people is a source of life and strength!
Pastor Paul & the Leadership Team of Heartwood Church
