Dear AABC Family,

It’s been a little more than two weeks since our campus closure and the online migration of all ministries (Stage 4 of our Emergency Response Plan), and it hasn't felt easier with each passing day. I’m sure all of you, like me, are yearning for the return to normalcy. We are all praying for the curve of this pandemic to be flattened, but we should also prepare ourselves for a new normal to be established in the weeks and months ahead.

Based upon what we see with the federal, stage and county guidelines, AABC will remain in our Stage 4 response until further notice. The Health Response Team (HRT) is daily monitoring the situation, and I am meeting with them regularly for any changes that will affect our church family and communities.

In the meantime, please do your best to care for those around with you with the love of Jesus. There are those who are elderly and/or have underlying health conditions; those who are lonely and don’t have a steady family or friends to connect with; those who are dealing with serious concerns over their jobs, businesses, or mental and spiritual health; and of course, those who are on the front lines of caring for those who are sick.

It may seem like there is a mountain of needs to tackle, and it’s natural to feel paralyzed or inept to do anything for anyone. I urge you to fight that feeling of paralysis and ineptness. We are not people left to our own devices and wits. We are His Church. We have His Spirit who empowers; His Gospel that saves; His Son Jesus who leads us to the brokenhearted and grants peace to those afraid. Pastor Andy Stanley once shared, “Do for one what you wish you could do for many.” Who is one person you can be Jesus to today?

The AABC leadership is praying for all of you and the impact you have for His Kingdom at this unprecedented time. If you have a need OR if you are able to help someone with a need, please do not hesitate to let us know. Our desire is for our church body to unite and help meet each other’s emotional, physical and spiritual needs as we are able. We are all in this together.

A great touchpoint for you to share your needs, or volunteer your help for those in need, are your Nurture Group leaders. You may also reach out to Betsy Wong, the Deacons or Pastors. The HRT members are also available to answer your medical questions. We are all available to talk, pray and journey with you during this challenging time.

Peace,
Ben