After much deliberation and prayer, it has become clear that it would be unwise for us to continue business as usual at Village. On Monday, Governor Pritzker mandated all groups above 50 be cancelled, while recommending we follow the recently released White House guidance of limiting groups to 10 or less.

We believe that these measures, while painful, are appropriate. We have a responsibility to love our neighbors, and this is a concrete way for us to sacrificially love those in our city. But what does this mean practically for us?

Sunday Services

We will not meet at Village on either March 22 or March 29—and quite possibly for additional weeks beyond this. But this doesn't mean we won't be gathering as a church. While not under the same roof, we'll meet under the same Word.

As long as we need to meet remotely, we will record each week's sermon and send it out Saturday evening. Along with this, we will include a link to a playlist with the songs for that Sunday, and a packet with a liturgy for home worship. This packet will include song lyrics, the Scripture reading, and discussion questions for the sermon to help you facilitate worship at home.

So while we won't be learning in the same space, we'll be learning together.

Midweek Programs

Due to the need to increase social distance with others, we are cancelling our other midweek programs. This means that we will be postponing Kids 4 Truth, Unite Youth Group and youth events, and all Bible Studies. You should be receiving more detailed information from the leaders of each of these ministries.

Community and Connection

Sunday morning is sweet because we get to see our sisters and brothers in Christ, to check in with one another, to share life. Obviously, we'll be missing this important connection point over the next few weeks.

One way we're going to retain connection is through the creation of a Village-wide Facebook group for members and regular attenders. If you're on Facebook, expect an invitation to join, and we hope you'll participate! If you're not on Facebook, rest assured, we will work to check in with everyone in the church over the next couple weeks.

But let's not rely on social media. It's during these days we need each of you to be really intentional. Because we need one another. The pastors and deacons will be checking in with everyone—but we'll be stronger and more connected if we all intentionally check in with one another on a regular basis.

We may be stuck at home, but it doesn't mean we have to be isolated. In fact, we see this as a great opportunity to strengthen our sense of community. Let's go deep church!

Care

We recognize that the pains and struggles of life don't stop. Both pastors plan to keep regular office hours, unless strict quarantine restrictions are implemented. Even then, we'll connect over phone or videoconference. If you need to meet to talk, we're here for you.

Additionally, we know that some of our body will suffer financially over the next several weeks. Know that we're here to help and resource you.

If we can be of assistance in any way, please email Bob or Brian to set up a meeting.

Food Pantry

We anticipate increased demand for food assistance in the coming weeks, as those affected by reduced hours struggle to make ends meet. As such, we plan to open our Food Pantry for additional hours over the next few weeks.

Giving

Lastly, let's stay faithful in our regular giving to the work and ministry of Village. Through all of this, we have committed to support missionaries, we have a building to maintain, and our ministries continue on—albeit through distance. If you typically give on Sunday morning, we encourage you to keep it up. You can send your contribution to the church, but we’re also working on online giving options. More info to follow.

. . .

We will be in regular communication with you as a church in the coming days and weeks.

Get connected to our Facebook group, stay in touch with your fellow Villagers, pray for one another, and plan to worship, separate in space, yet together in spirit this weekend.

We love you Village, and eagerly look forward to meeting together again soon!

-The Village Leadership