Dear FBC Family, 

These are quite the times we are living in, as COVID-19 has now arrived full force on our shores.  This week, as you know, a "stay at home" order was issued for Virginians until June 10, with a ban on gatherings of ten or more until that time.  However, the order may be “amended or rescinded” if things are going well. 

The truth is only God knows.  The news changes with each passing day, but He is faithful.  His promises and character are unchanging, and I am incredibly proud of the way our church is dealing with this pandemic.  

• Out of love for your neighbors, you are doing everything you can not to be infected or become an unknowing carrier of the disease to others. 

• You are doing all you can to stay connected to others in our church family. You are calling others, meeting with them on Zoom or FaceTime, reaching out on social media. 

• You are growing in the Lord, taking extra time in prayer and Scripture in your quiet time. You are watching our sermons and other videos and social media posts. 

• You are ministering to others. I have heard so many testimonies of care for the elderly and vulnerable, making masks for health care workers, and checking on neighbors.  

• Families are growing closer. Our rushing around and over-scheduled calendars have been forcibly altered, and we are learning that we can just enjoy the simple things.  

• You are interceding for others, pouring out your prayers on behalf of the suffering, our brave healthcare workers, and for those searching for a cure.  

Brothers and sisters, we don’t know exactly when this will end, but we will come out of it stronger as a church…and I believe this will also change America for the better.  We will take less things for granted, and we are learning that we can be content with less.  God is at work.  

This Sunday is Palm Sunday, the day we remember that Jesus rode into Jerusalem, a humble King on a donkey, to suffer and die for our sins.  Therefore, we will focus on the cross this Sunday, as I share a message called, “The Word Of The Cross,” from 1 Corinthians 1:18-25.  Tune in this Sunday, and, if you are on Facebook, be sure to share it with others.  

Again, if you have any need, know that your pastors and all your brothers and sisters in Christ are here for you.  Stay close to Jesus.   

Love in Christ, 

Pastor Thurman