LifePoint Family and Friends,
With the goal of keeping you informed, I’m writing to let you know how the latest government guidelines affect LifePoint Church. Some of you may not realize that the LifePoint facilities are in Baltimore County. Recently, Baltimore County Executive Johnny Olszewski announced actions to protect residents and communities and minimize the spread of COVID-19. This order went into effect on Friday, May 15 at 5:00 pm.
These recent guidelines loosen some restrictions while other requirements remain unchanged. Here are the two areas of the guidelines that directly affect our church (from baltimorecountymd.gov):
- Prohibition of 10 or More Extended. County Executive Olszewski’s executive action to prohibit gatherings or events to 10 or more people at all locations and venues will remain in place.
- In-Person Religious Institutions Remain Closed. Until further notice, religious institutions may not begin holding worship services and ceremonies indoors. The restriction on gatherings of more than 10 people remains in place—and those restrictions will continue to apply to religious gatherings.
I know this whole thing feels like two steps forward and three steps back. Like you, I’m looking forward to being able to meet together at least in some capacity very soon. In the meantime, we have chosen to make safety a priority and honor the governing authorities as God encourages us to do (Romans 13:1-2).
The news changes quickly. I and others on our staff are committed to keeping you informed as soon as we hear news that affects our church. For now, we’ll continue to meet online. Remarkably, God has used this pandemic to expand the reach of our church. More people are “coming to church” than at any time in our church’s history. Look and you’ll find some silver linings. Plus, I’ve enjoyed wearing my pajama bottoms to church.
We’re in it together!
Joe Duke
Sr. Pastor