We're Coming Back June 7th!
Announcement of Rio Church’s Policy regarding Social Distancing
12 weeks. 3 months. 1 full season.
That’s how long Rio Church has been participating in online-only church services and small groups. And while we are grateful to God for the technology we have access to, as well as the training required to pull-off services in this manner, we are far more excited at the prospect of returning to in-person services beginning June 7th!
Hebrews 10:24-25 encourages us to, “…consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.” Jesus Himself tells us that there is something unique that happens when His people gather in His name: “For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them.” (Matthew 18:20)
We need each other and Jesus joins us in a unique way when we gather in His name—and its for these reasons among others that we are eager to meet in person again. But things will be a little different for a season as social-distancing guidelines and government reopening restrictions are still in place. Our desire is to abide by these guidelines to the best of our ability as we believe the government has been given to the people by God for our good (Romans 13).
Even more importantly than that is the message of Jesus. In John 13:34 Jesus said, “…just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another.” Paul the Apostle expands upon this idea in a practical way in Philippians 2:3 when he tells us to, “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.”
With that in mind, we want to live out both of these foundational principals as we gather together for in-person services moving forward. We want to consider the health of those who are immunocompromised or otherwise at a greater risk of infection in the midst of this pandemic season, and so we, as a church body, desire to put aside our preferences in consideration of others and abide by the safety precautions put forward by our government.
Here is what we request from those who choose to attend a Rio Church service along with a few other changes that will be present:
IN ADDITION to our in-person services, we have invested in better equipment for a smoother, high-quality live-streaming service to allow for those who are still at risk or feel unsafe returning to in-person services the opportunity to attend online. We CAN’T WAIT for you to join us in person, but absolutely understand using wisdom and caution in a time such as this.
Our mission to love God, love others, and make disciples who do the same remains unchanged just like our God and His faithfulness. Things will look a little different than we are used to for a time, but ultimately God’s people remain steadfast in seeking Him and accomplishing His call upon our lives.
I can’t wait to see you all this Sunday!
In Christ,
Bryne Palmer
Lead Pastor at Rio Church
That’s how long Rio Church has been participating in online-only church services and small groups. And while we are grateful to God for the technology we have access to, as well as the training required to pull-off services in this manner, we are far more excited at the prospect of returning to in-person services beginning June 7th!
Hebrews 10:24-25 encourages us to, “…consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.” Jesus Himself tells us that there is something unique that happens when His people gather in His name: “For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them.” (Matthew 18:20)
We need each other and Jesus joins us in a unique way when we gather in His name—and its for these reasons among others that we are eager to meet in person again. But things will be a little different for a season as social-distancing guidelines and government reopening restrictions are still in place. Our desire is to abide by these guidelines to the best of our ability as we believe the government has been given to the people by God for our good (Romans 13).
Even more importantly than that is the message of Jesus. In John 13:34 Jesus said, “…just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another.” Paul the Apostle expands upon this idea in a practical way in Philippians 2:3 when he tells us to, “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.”
With that in mind, we want to live out both of these foundational principals as we gather together for in-person services moving forward. We want to consider the health of those who are immunocompromised or otherwise at a greater risk of infection in the midst of this pandemic season, and so we, as a church body, desire to put aside our preferences in consideration of others and abide by the safety precautions put forward by our government.
Here is what we request from those who choose to attend a Rio Church service along with a few other changes that will be present:
- When attending we request that masks are worn and social distancing observed.
- Upon entering for service families can sit together, but aside from this we will be spreading out chairs as space allows to create sufficient space for social-distancing guidelines.
- Hand-sanitation stations will be available.
- Rio Kids will be on hold for the time being and children encouraged to sit with their family for a season.
- There will continue to be pre-recorded children’s messages so that families can
- teach their children at home or allow their kids to watch (with headphones) during
- service.
- Coffee will be discontinued for the time being, though you can always bring in your own mugs.
- For now we ask that everyone stick to air-fives and air hugs.
IN ADDITION to our in-person services, we have invested in better equipment for a smoother, high-quality live-streaming service to allow for those who are still at risk or feel unsafe returning to in-person services the opportunity to attend online. We CAN’T WAIT for you to join us in person, but absolutely understand using wisdom and caution in a time such as this.
Our mission to love God, love others, and make disciples who do the same remains unchanged just like our God and His faithfulness. Things will look a little different than we are used to for a time, but ultimately God’s people remain steadfast in seeking Him and accomplishing His call upon our lives.
I can’t wait to see you all this Sunday!
In Christ,
Bryne Palmer
Lead Pastor at Rio Church
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