May 27, 2020

Dear Church Family,

Our state and country have begun opening up again, but our church has actually never been closed! The building’s doors may have been closed, but the church is the people, not the building. And our people have been on mission, spreading the good news of Jesus during this time! You and I have continued to minister to those in need, and we’ve continued to study the Bible and worship our great God. Church truly is essential! And you and I are Christ’s church!

During this time, we’ve also continued to meet in smaller Community Groups online throughout the week. Many have found these groups to be incredibly helpful in their lives. In Ecclesiastes 4:12, we read these great words:

Though one may be overpowered,
    two can defend themselves.
A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.

Isn’t it true? We need other people to make it through this life! If you are not in a group yet, I’ve got great news! Next week, we will be launching into our summer semester of these small groups. Why not take advantage of this opportunity to develop deep Christian friendships, formed as we study the Bible together. This summer, we have more than a dozen groups that are able to accept new members. We offer groups on every day of the week. We have men’s groups, women’s groups, and co-ed groups. We have groups studying a variety of topics. There is definitely something for you!

To see the full list and to join a group, please visit:
gracekrc.com/getinvolved

As we launch into our summer semester of Community Groups, each group will continue to meet in an online-only format. Gov. Ron DeSantis has made it clear that the right way to reopen is “safe, smart, and step-by-step.” At the time of the writing of this letter, Florida is still in Phase I of reopening. Among other things, that means those who are over age 65 and those who have heart, lung, or immune system conditions are still asked to shelter-in-place. Furthermore, social gatherings of 10 or more are still asked to not meet.

As the conditions of the pandemic continue to evolve, some groups may discuss moving to in-person meetings or hybrid meetings, as they take into account state and local guidelines regarding gathering size restrictions, social distancing requirements, hygiene recommendations, mask wearing, etc.

Why take these safety precautions? First, your health is important to us. But there’s an even deeper reason. Jesus said the greatest commandment is to love God and to love our neighbors. The heart of love is putting the needs of others first. In this season, we will be asked to do many things that may feel uncomfortable or inconvenient for ourselves in order to protect others, especially the most vulnerable. Reducing disease spread by following governmental guidelines is one of those things we must do out of love.

Again, I hope you will join a Community Group today. We really believe in this ministry. We have been working with the leaders, and they are excited to have you. If you have any questions or need help finding the right group, please email communitygroups@sunlightcc.org or text 772-277-7072.

In Christ,

Bill Whitt, Associate Pastor