- Letter from Reverend Ko and Reverend Hung -
Dear NYCAC & 3Stone,
Travel bans from Europe, a suspended NBA season, Tom Hanks confirming COVID-19 infection—fear is palpable and paralysis is widespread. Yet through all the chaos and confusion, one thing is sure; Christ reigns over pandemics, illness, and even death. We need not worry about the future, for it is secure. As markets crash, schools shutter, and stores empty, we can live with a peace that transcends the wisdom of the world. Sacrificial love can replace the paralysis of hoarding. Hope is available beyond present surroundings.
In these times, there is one thing we should ask, “that we may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of our lives, to gaze on His beauty and seek him in his temple.” Instead of running away, we can worship in the presence of the King. As we face our fears, the fellowship of believers will encourage us. Prayer will transform our souls as we witness the glory of the Savior.
Currently, there is a statewide ban on gatherings of any size amid the current Coronavirus outbreak. Since the onset, our church has attempted to lead in love rather than be manipulated by fear and stigma. Although we are far from perfect, we have relied on sound theology while adhering to medical and public health recommendations. It is in this context that we will follow the gubernatorial ban to decrease the risk of transmission. With the health and safety of both our congregation and the local community in mind, we will transition to online ministry models where possible, continuing for the foreseeable future.
While the impact of COVID-19 infection among individuals below 60 is relatively mild, the morbidity and mortality for the elderly are substantially higher. By heeding the recommendations, we are not only caring for the most vulnerable but also reducing the risk of infected persons among us and necessary quarantines.
So, what does this look like in practice?
1) We will suspend all Sunday worship services and associated activities while the ban is in place.
-Sunday worship will take place online, “live” or “recorded” through the NYCAC/3Stone websites
-Sunday activities (Sunday school, Youth, Children’s Ministry, Fellowship, etc.) will occur online or through other creative forums
2) Outside of Sunday, the church will be closed.
-Fellowship activities will be held through online forums such as Zoom or google hangouts.
-Individuals will be encouraged to commune with the Body of Christ, albeit through innovative and unique ways.
Please see the PDF on Church Meetings and Contingency Plans for further information. Let us remember the words of Isaiah 41:10 as we lift our church, city, country, and world in prayer, “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous hand.” Together, in the power of Christ, we will be victorious!
The pastoral staff is available to you at any time. We will be in touch with frequent updates.
On behalf of the NYCAC/3Stone Pastoral Staff,
Reverend Ko and Reverend Hung