PASTOR TO PEOPLE
It’s great to be back with our Moody Church family this morning. We had a refreshing and memorable time on vacation as a family, including a chance to visit with my parents in Ohio. This morning I’m preaching offsite to honor Chicago’s travel quarantine requirements. I’m grateful for our tech and media teams who have come together to serve us all this morning. We have quite a team!
Several influential churches across our country made headlines recently as they announced their decisions on in-person gatherings. I want you to know that while our Elders (of which I am a voting member) are keeping a close eye on these developments, they know their final responsibility rests not in following along with what others are doing, but in shepherding this local church body in this particular city with the wisdom, leading, and courage that God provides. As the Elders previously announced, we will not be regathering for corporate worship services at least through the end of the summer, although a few of our Communities have begun gathering with clear guidelines in place.
As we continue to prayerfully consider the future, there are five main biblical values we’re seeking to uphold:
- Gathering in worship (Hebrews 10:25)
- Loving our neighbors (Mark 12:31)
- Submitting to authorities (Romans 13:1–7)
- Maintaining our witness (Colossians 4:5–6)
- Shepherding our people (Acts 20:28)
Would you pray that God would grant exceptional wisdom to the Elders of The Moody Church as we continue to seek the Lord’s face as to how He would have us navigate these difficult times? Thank you for your patience and for your prayers.
You are loved, more than you know!
Pastor Philip
