Greetings in the name of Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. Today, we are approaching the eleventh week of being physically apart and without the privilege of entering and enjoying the facilities of St. John. President Trump declared last week that churches can reopen, and Governor Newsom stated on Monday the same as long as churches comply with certain guidelines. Although some churches, even in the Bay Area, have decided to reopen this month, my position is still the same. People’s health means more to me than wealth, so the doors of St. John will reopen when it is safe. In the meantime, I still encourage each of us to be safe.
Last week, I solicited your support to make suggestions as to how our church can assist and help others. This was a great opportunity for everyone to share, especially people who would like to see our church do more for those in need, but only a few replied with suggestions. Nonetheless, I am still open to hearing from you regarding ways we can assist those in need. Remember our church theme is “Reaching Others For Christ” (Lk. 14:16-24).
Currently, we help people in many ways, but we do not boast about who we help or what we do (Mt. 6:1-4). I was hoping some would have suggested that we provide groceries for people in need which is one of my desires, but this can only be done if we have volunteers. I will not ask our Culinary Ministry or our elderly parishioners to assist me in this endeavor because older people are more at risk to Covid-19. If you feel God is leading you to volunteer your time and services to prepare and distribute food to those in need, please reply to this email.
As of last week, we developed a plan to help St. John members who need financial assistance with their monthly rent or mortgage. If you are a St. John parishioner needing this type of assistance, please contact Deacon Arthur Lee Johnson.
Moreover, I still encourage each of us to participate in our Online Ministries. My staff and I have worked diligently to provide St. John and others opportunities to grow and stay connected. Many of us are benefitting from our Online Ministries, but many are not. These Online Ministries are designed to glorify God and edify each of us, so I strongly exhort those of you who are not participating (yet able to participate) to allow our Online Ministries to be a blessing to you by participating. Through our website (www.sjmbc.org), needed and updated information is available about Online Podcast Messages, Sunday School, Prayer Meetings, Bible Study, The Lord’s Supper and much more.
Lastly, I sincerely thank those of you who have been supporting St. John financially. The tithes and offerings are increasing because more of you are giving which enables us to meet our financial obligations and enables us to help others in need as I mentioned above.
I encourage everyone (mainly those of us who receive income) to faithfully and generously support St. John financially with our tithes and offerings. You can mail your Tithes and Offerings to our St. John South Campus (662 South 52nd Street—Richmond, CA 94804), or you can give online through our website (www.sjmbc.org). Although I do not recommend this next option, if you prefer, you can also set aside weekly your Tithes and Offerings and give the total amount (individual checks, one check or cash) the Sunday we resume corporate worship.
In conclusion, Trust In The Lord, Encourage Yourself In The Lord, Think Yourself Happy, and Think Higher while you Hold On and take One Step At A Time. Remember, when you are Covered By The Blood, by acknowledging that He Is Risen, God Will Take Care Of You.
May God Bless And Sustain Each Of Us.
Your Servant In Christ,
Dr. Kevin B. Hall, Pastor