Important notice about the church and COVID-19

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We know that God has not given us a Spirit of fear but of power, love, and sound mind.  Part of our identity as Christians is the joy and strength we get from gathering together.  We remember that Jesus said, “For where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there among them,” Matthew 18:20.  At First Presbyterian we love sharing in coffee hour, worship, potluck dinners, setting up for flea markets, and teaching Sunday School among many other things.

At this time the session has decided it is best to be precautious about the COVID-19 pandemic. Therefore,

  • We have closed the building to all groups with hopes that we can resume a normal schedule on April 5.  Rahway Food for Friends will meet on Saturdays to provide “to go” lunches for those who attend.
  • In person worship is cancelled for the month of March with hopes for worship resuming in person by Palm Sunday, April 5. 
  • We will provide a simple prayer service to share in the mail.  In addition, we will record a worship video which will be accessible on our website, Facebook page, and via email.  If you would like something mailed or emailed to you, please let me know.   We will also provide extra resources for our families with children at home.
  • Session will be meeting via conference call this Thursday for updates and further decisions.
  • We ask that no visitors come into the office.  If you have a need or know of someone who does, please call the church office at 732.382.0803 or email Carol Ann (office@1stpresrahway.org) or Pastor Erin (revehayes@gmail.com) and we will do our best to help! 
  • Our custodian Jose has already begun to deep clean and disinfect our church building.
  • While we do not have in person worship we encourage you to send in your offerings or pledges to the church office.  We know that the life of the church will continue in many different ways and your financial support makes the difference.

This whole experience is new and can be scary to many of us.  I encourage you to be the wonderful people of God you already are and check in with each other.  Our deacons will be checking in on you also.  Have your own coffee hour at 11:30 on Sunday over the phone!  Send a card to someone you know.  Let’s be creative!

Keep your eyes out for further details!  May the peace of Christ which surpasses all understanding rest, rule, and abide in you today and forever more.

Pastor Erin