We canceling worship for the next two weeks (March 15 & 22).  Let me explain a bit more fully.  On the one hand, you’re probably tired of hearing about COVID-19, on the other hand, some (or many) of you may be quite anxious about it. As with most complicated things, a clear path forward is not exactly, well, clear.  Our leadership is looking to take a calm, but cautious approach for these next few weeks and months.  We recognize that "church" is not in building, but where two or three are gathered together, Christ is there with them.

As early as yesterday morning, we were simply talking about precautions to take for our next worship (no handshaking, no nursery, extra cleaning, etc.)  At that point, we had only heard about  specific warnings for gatherings over 250 people.  As a group we generally average about 150 people each Sunday. While we might not have many who worship with us that are elderly, we do average about 50 kids/students under 18.

As the day progressed, the precautionary cancelations seem to be adding up. NCAA tournament, our own church basketball tournament, colleges going online, library closing meeting spaces and groups over 100 people, high school spring sports postponed until after April 6th, then finally last night, Douglas County School District extended spring break an additional week. In short, in a matter of 12 hours, the situation was dramatically changing.

Where does this put us? Calm yet cautious. Complete trust in Christ, but also utilizing the information at hand.  Two things have stood out.

1. We know the virus is now in Douglas County and it has a long incubation period, meaning some people can carry it around without knowing it until it’s already been spread.

2. The government and health community at large are asking us to do whatever we can to stop the spread so that we’re not taxing hospitals when some are under-resourced to deal with the problem.

Over the coming days, our leadership team will be evaluating next steps.  For these next two Sundays, I'll send out a link to an abbreviated worship service/ sermon you can participate with at home or with a small group. God never promised to stop adversity, only to be there with us as we travel through it.  Thanks in advance for your patience and support!

In Christ,
pastor

Frequently Asked Questions

What about people who are vulnerable in our community?Great question, we have already had a number of people willing to run errands, pick up medicine, groceries, etc. for our members and attenders who could more susceptible to the virus.  Would you appreciate this help, please, please reach out.  Your fellow Christians are more than happy to help!

What about the Lord's Supper? Pastor will be offering private communion to anyone who requests it.  Private communion takes about 30 minutes with prayer, a reading and the sacrament (Pastor has a portable communion set.)  Email, call or text (pastor@eternalrock.org, 303-638-5434) to arrange a visit.

How about my thank offerings? Offerings and donations are vital for a church to be able to continue sharing the Gospel so your continued donations are appreciated.  Donations can be made online HERE or on our website under the "give" tab.  In addition, you may mail your donations to Eternal Rock Lutheran Church, 2 Phelps Street, Castle Rock, CO 80104.

How about Connect Groups?Our weekly Connect Groups (small groups studies) will also be put on hold until we can determine the severity of the disease progression.

Virtual worship doesn't sound the same? We agree its missing physical contact etc..., which is why we're praying this is only for a short time. We realize this isn't the best situation but God's done a lot more with a lot less.  Take this time to be Christ's hands and feet in the community, pray for those around you and share the hope you have in savior that never fails us.

Jared Oldenburg, pastor
Eternal Rock Lutheran Church
2 Phelps Street
Castle Rock, CO 80104
303-638-5434
www.eternalrock.org
pastor@eternalrock.org

"Trust in the LORD always, for the LORD GOD is the eternal ROCK." --Isaiah 26:4 (NLT)

Jared Oldenburg, pastor
Eternal Rock Lutheran Church
2 Phelps Street
Castle Rock, CO 80104
303-638-5434
www.eternalrock.org
pastor@eternalrock.org

"Trust in the LORD always, for the LORD GOD is the eternal ROCK." --Isaiah 26:4 (NLT)