ALL MAY EVENTS CANCELLED | COVID-19 UPDATE

As we have all become aware this week, we are living in unprecedented, historic times. The news reports and government decisions and recommendations concerning Coronavirus (COVID-19) seem to be updated almost hourly. As people of faith and as writers, we do not give in to fear and panic. At the same time, we also want to be responsible citizens, especially when asked by our president, governor, and health care professionals.

At the president’s briefing a week ago, President Trump asked for gatherings to be reduced to no more than 10 people for the next two weeks. Governor Walz has made an executive decision to close all restaurants and bars, while encouraging public distancing to begin immediately. Further decisions will most likely be forthcoming after this initial two-week period. The purpose is to try and flatten the bell curve so as not to overload our healthcare system.

Though this current restriction is until this Friday evening, we as a leadership felt it responsible by CANCELLING all MCWG-related events: the May 11th meeting. Not from fear, but out of civil responsibility for the health and well-being of our MCWG members and those in our community.

As writers and followers of Jesus, how do we respond:

1. Live by faith and not in fear.

We trust in a God who knows the future and has promised to be with us. Jesus reminded us that there would be hard times, times of famine and pestilences, yet we are repeatedly told to fear not. Jesus said, “But the Helper; the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things…Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives…let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid” (John 14:25-27).

2. Encourage one another.

This is a perfect time for the church to truly be the church. When people’s nerves and faith are shaken, we can be an encouragement through our writing to bring hope and comfort. Call a friend and encourage them today. Be a beacon of peace by letting your light shine today.

3. Pray

All through Biblical history, the prayers of the saints changed world history. We serve a God who is the same yesterday, today and forever. Let’s lift up our national and spiritual leaders, and our health care professionals who are working under intense pressure and grueling schedules. Pray for those affected by the virus. Pray for protection for those not affected. Pray for the church that we would be that beacon of peace and calm in the world. Pray for a quick resolve, healing, and cure. Lastly, pray 2 Chronicles 7:14, “if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.”

4. Give

We know that many people are under financial strain at this time. Jobs may have been temporarily lost or hours cut. Our heart goes out to retirees whose income may be impacted by the loss in retirement plans. The ripple effects in our economy will be felt for a long time.

Here’s how you can help. During this time when our evens are cancelled, we ask you to continue faithfully supporting your guild and its ongoing needs by either using our online giving BY CLICKING HERE.

If you are able to give extra during this time, your giving will be greatly appreciated.

In closing, we are doing all we can to care for you and our members during this trying season–especially those at higher risk to COVID-19. Remember, you are not alone. You are surrounded by God’s presence and the love and prayers of God’s people.

Please do not hesitate to reach out with any specific prayer needs that you may have.

We love you. You are in our prayers.

Blessings,

Pat Vandermerwe
Stacy Monson
Jason Sisam
Lois Whittet
Laura Roseler