Covid-19
SPREAD HOPE NOT FEAR!
During this pandemic, we have decided to have VIRTUAL/ONLINE-only services for the foreseeable future, with the exception of summer outdoor and drive-in services, beginning Sunday, March 22, 2020. We welcome and encourage all to participate in virtual worship and word by watching on any of the following platforms: Website, Citadel App or our Facebook page on Sundays at 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. and Tuesdays at 7 p.m.
The church is not a building — it’s a community of people who love Jesus and love each other. So while we may not be able to meet in person, we can stay connected with people who care about us by online worship, virtual small groups, and other virtual methods.
Like many churches, we are trying to balance the tension of trying to let people get back together while trying also to honor what the Governor, Mayor, CDC and other civil leaders are asking of us. According to the CDC, "the risk of spread is higher in closed spaces when in close proximity to someone infected and increases the longer you are near them. Church-related gatherings often have all these features, and have been the nexus for many cases where COVID-19 has spread across a community." Therefore by continuing in-person worship, rather than looking courageous and faithful, we come off looking callous and even foolish.
Lastly, we believe coming together as a congregation in the face of this pandemic actually harms our witness. It would be tragic — and fundamentally irreligious — to rush to return to normalcy and risk human lives.
We continually ask that you would be faithful in prayer for those impacted, our government officials, medical professionals, and the global church.
Stay Connected
During these days, community with others is more critical than ever. Fortunately, our digital world provides access to a host of tools that enable community while still complying with the guidelines imposed by our governing authorities. Zoom, FaceTime, Google Hangouts, Skype, WhatsApp, and WebEx are resources that will help you connect with your friends, family, and small group.
If you’re not connected to a Citadel Life Group or Sunday Academy Class, let now be the time to join in. Small groups at Citadel exist to help people grow closer with God and others, promoting spiritual growth and maturity.
Stay Healthy and Informed
In a crisis like this, it's common for misinformation to spread, and it can be difficult to figure out who and what to trust. Here are some reliable resources that can connect you with accurate and helpful info.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
The CDC is the leading national public-health organization in the U.S. and has up-to-date info on COVID-19 (coronavirus).
Michigan Department for Public Health (MDHHS)
The MDHHS is the state department responsible for public health in Michigan.
Taking Care of Your Mental Health
Uncertainty and confusion can have a harmful effect on your mental health. This article from the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention gives you five ways to take care of your mental health in the face of uncertainty.
