Pastor's Special Covid Message

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

I greet you yet again in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ during these tempestuous times. I am sure by now you have heard that Jackson County, along with others, has issued another health order to lower the capacity of businesses and certain public gatherings in the region in response to a resurgence of COVID-19 infections. This order is to go into effect this Friday at midnight.

While the new order does limit the capacity of entertainment venues, recreational facilities, restaurants, taverns, etc., it does not place any new capacity limits upon churches. However, it is important to remember the admonition of the Lord to the Saints in these the latter days. “Let no man break the laws of the land, for he that keepth the laws of God hath no need to break the laws of the land; wherefore be subject to the powers that be, until He reigns whose right it is to reign, and subdues all enemies under His feet.” [DC 58:5b].

Regardless of the various arguments that might ensue, the order explicitly states that masks must be worn and personal protection equipment utilized. Thus, we ask and require that we be obedient to the order. We have masks available at the front door as well as various sanitizing stations located throughout the church building. We will continue to social distance and meet as per usual. We will still hold our Thanksgiving dinner with modifications. The tables will be distanced, families will sit together, and those attending will be served without having to go through a line.

I understand the frustration that we all feel with the present situation that we are facing, but it is important that we remember the promises of God, as well as their conditions. There must be a mighty change in this land in order for Zion to come forth, but the Lord has encouraged us that we be not afraid nor dismayed. He is in control and He will fight the battles of Zion, for assuredly, they are not ours but His. The scriptures bear witness of the hope that we have in God, for how many times has He delivered His people from their afflictions and bondage? I know that He will do so again for He is both faithful and able to fulfill His word. Let us therefore love one another as Christ loves us and live for Him as He has lived for us.

“Behold, the Land of Zion, I, the Lord, holdeth it in mine own hands nevertheless, I, the Lord, rendereth unto Caesar the things which are Caesar’s.” [DC 63:8b]. “The Saints can not occupy in any place on the land of Zion which is not under the domination of civil law, and as citizens of the state, holding their liberties under the law, there must be a proper recognition and observance of these laws. The Lord has said that this condition of obedience to law must continue until He comes whose right it is to come and assumes to reign over His people.” [DC 128:7c-d].

Much hurt and sadness has occurred within the branch during this time, for which I take upon myself the responsibility. I have endeavored to seek the Lord’s will and guidance, and will continue to do so. I have not intentionally sought to harm anyone. I have sought to serve you and worship with you. I have been in many, if not all, of your homes because of the love we have for one another. I say this not to set myself a part, but to remind us all of the love that the whole branch has shared together over the years. I pray that we can forgive each other and without judgment. “Let us not therefore judge one another any more; but judge this rather, that no man put a stumbling block or an occasion to fall in his brother’s way.” [Romans 14:13].

May the God of peace be with us all. For though we suffer tribulation and distress, we know our God is with us and that His Zion lays before us, even at the door.​

With much love and concern,

Your pastor,

Andrew

We are truly Blessed with musicians in this Branch

Brother Jeff King is a trained and experienced pianist and organist who, among other things, is on the CofC Temple organ staff.

Sister Sarah Weston is one of those pianists that you dream of and she and her daughter offer such precious vocal ministry.

Sister Melinda Hawley is another well experienced pianist and offers superb vocal ministry. Sister Melinda has recorded several recordings.

Sister Angie Goff is a workhorse as a pianist. She serves that Branch continually, accompanies several soloists and is a mainstay with Brother Jeff King in Piano/Organ duets.

Brother Mark Coleville serve us monthly as an organist.

Sister Judy Hood serves as a backup pianist and often brings special music with her violin.

Sister Savannah Hawley brings beautiful solo ministry and frequently brings other to bring group vocal ministry.

The Buttgen family headed by Sister Glenda often brings precious vocal ministry as they did this morning.

Brother Tom Mitchell is a joy when he accompanies himself on his guitar with vocal ministry.

Brother Glenn Dunlap regularly brings precious vocal ministry.

Sister Elizabeth and Brother Charles Sperry serves the branch well with both vocal and corporate music.

Several of our ladies often bring precious group ministry.

AND MANY OTHERS!

Please come and join in with the choir (see announcement above).

Odessa Hills Campground

Odessa Hills Campground has an open position for its Caretaker. The job requirements are listed on the bulletin board above the foyer table for those interested.

Update on CPRS Matching Fund

We are ALREADY so close to meeting our goal of matching $25,000!

Would you help put us over the top?

Way to go! We appreciate all who will, and have already contributed to this CPRS Matching Fund Drive!

THANK YOU!

Sarah English

CPRS School Secretary

EMAIL: office@cprseagles.com

PHONE: 816.252.1715

FAX: 816.252.2900

WEBSITE: cprsgoldeneagles.com