HOPE COMMUNITY UPDATE

Hope Church updates on the Coronavirus

Covid Update with Steve Chick – 5 Nov 2020

Updates from Lead Elder, Steve Chick, regarding Hope Church meeting together, COVID and moving forward:

- On the left, Encouragement from Steve re Lockdown 2.0, recorded 5 November 2020
- Below, an earlier update on 14 October 2020

As we move towards the winter months there is every indication that the Covid restrictions are only going to get tighter. In view of this I want to encourage us all to keep focusing on what we can do rather than what we can’t do. I know there is a weariness with online meetings which can feel overwhelming at times, especially zoom. Yet let’s not lose heart. If we are growing weary let’s take Jesus up on his offer, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28).

Despite the challenges there are many things that we are not restricted from doing.

All of us can continue to love God with all our heart, soul, mind and strength. All of us can fix our eyes on Jesus. All of us can be filled every day with the Spirit. Only as we do this can we show God’s love to those around us. All of us can find ways of connecting with others.

Even though we all miss being together on Sundays at the MBC and in Kings Worthy we are still able to gather in smaller groups. Whilst the Government’s ‘rule of six’ may yet change, Jesus’ ‘rule of two or three’ (Matthew 18:20) won’t! In the smallest group of people that can gather in his name Jesus promises he will be present. When we meet with other believers we are being church.

We are still encouraging small distinct groups of people to use the MBC whilst complying with government guidance. Currently the youth, our students, some small groups and Freedom in Christ, are using the MBC for gatherings of up to around 30 people.

Let’s continue to be creative in doing things we are allowed to do at the moment and take initiative with those around us both inside and outside the church.

I am so grateful to God for each and every one of you.

With much love and grace

Steve

NEED HELP?

If at any point during this season you are in need of assistance because of the Coronavirus outbreak (COVID-19), HOPE is here to help! Whether it is going to the shops on your behalf, picking up a prescription, or connecting in prayer, we would like to know. Please email care@hopewinchester.org. Your request will be reviewed immediately and we will contact you with more information.

FAQs

Question: Is Hope Church on?

Yes and no! Due to the ongoing Government restrictions, Hope Church has suspended all physical meetings, and will not meet at either our Central or North site. However, we are continuing to meet online. See What's On for details.

Question: Is my group still meeting?

No. All physical meetings especially those within the church buildings are not taking place. This also includes Community Groups and any other home-based church groups.

Question: I need practical help or have a question.

Please email care@hopewinchester.org to provide us with information on how Hope can help you. If you find yourself isolated or in need of any help or support with shopping or running errands please contact us, Hope Care team is here to help!

Question: I need prayer or have a prayer request.

Please email care@hopewinchester.org and our Hope Care prayer team can look after you.

Question: I've said YES to Jesus during a Hope Online Sunday Service.

Please tell a friend or family member from Hope Church and then email care@hopewinchester.org and our Hope Care team would love to talk to you and follow up.

Question: How can I help?

Email us on care@hopewinchester.org to let us know what you can do. Our Hope Care team will contact when a suitable opportunity to help arises.

Question: I want to share some good news!!

Please share this with your group leaders, email it to care@hopewinchester.org and send us a Direct Message with a video of yourself so we can repost it on our Instagram or Facebook pages.

Question: I would like to give

For us at Hope Church, giving is a part of our worship, and it’s how we fund what we do. You can give through My ChurchSuite or via the website here. Simple and secure. Give a single gift or schedule recurring giving.