As your beloved pastor, I greet each of you in the name of Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. As we approach almost nine weeks of being physically apart, God has kept us alive despite this global crisis. I am pleased with how creatively we have developed in such a short time our Online Ministries, and I am pleased to see the large numbers of people that are participating; however, I need to encourage us to do more, so please adhere to the following:
First, I encourage everyone to be safe. Because so many people are ill and dying, I want to encourage each of us to do what we can to be as healthy as possible.
Secondly, I encourage everyone to visit our website at least weekly (www.sjmbc.org). You will find updated and needed information about Online Podcast Messages, Sunday School, Prayer Meetings, Bible Study, The Lord’s Supper and other relevant information.
Thirdly, I encourage everyone to pray mightily. Please continue to pray at least 3 times daily (1st prayer between 12-6 am).
Fourthly, I encourage everyone to assist others. Since so many St. John parishioners do not have online capabilities, please help them in whatever way that you can so that they can receive the blessings and information that are available online.
Fifthly, I encourage everyone to share some love. In the last week, Sis. Terri Daniels passed (a St. John parishioner who attended the North Campus), Sis. Jamilah Sylve’s sister passed (her brother passed 3 weeks ago), and Mother Lillian Wiggins’ sister passed. Unfortunately, we can only announce the deaths of members and their immediate family (e.g. spouse, children, parents or siblings) due to the size of our congregation. I share this in case you wonder why some deaths are mentioned, yet others are not. Nonetheless, all grieving families (including those not mentioned) need our prayerful support.
Sixthly, I encourage everyone to faithfully and generously support St. John financially with your tithes and offerings. I am so grateful to many of you who have been giving, but I need to encourage everyone (mainly those of us who receive income) to contribute financially to St. John. You can mail your Tithes and Offerings to our St. John South Campus (662 South 52nd Street—Richmond, CA 94804), or you can give online through our website (www.sjmbc.org). Although I do not recommend this next option, if you prefer, you can also set aside weekly your Tithes and Offerings and give the total amount (individual checks, one check or cash) the Sunday we resume corporate worship.
In conclusion, Trust In The Lord, Encourage Yourself In The Lord, Think Yourself Happy, and Hold On! Oh, don’t forget when you are Covered By The Blood, by acknowledging that He Is Risen, God Will Take Care Of You.
May God Bless And Sustain Each Of Us.
Your Servant In Christ,
Dr. Kevin B. Hall, Pastor