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Wow! The whole world can change in an instant, hey?

Of course, we believe that God is in control, and "we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose" (Romans 8:28). Somehow, God is going to take this current crisis and use it to do something good. 

This message is to give you an update on some adjustments we're making as a church in order to continue providing excellent ministry in Penticton regardless of the circumstances. There have been many times in history where God's people had to stop gathering in large groups, yet that doesn't stop the church from being the church! Thankfully, we have some great options to help us remain connected.

Here's how we want to remain connected with you during this time:

1. Sundays

Our Sunday gatherings are going virtual! Though we can't hold large group meetings (in person Sunday services), we can all meet online. 

We will be streaming live worship, prayer and preaching through our YouTube channel for anyone to access. Our service will be streamed live online every Sunday morning at 10am. 

You can find the link directly through our website as well: www.betheltab.ca

2. Kids

Parents, we're here for you! We know that kids church is a weekly highlight for so many kids. We also know that school closures have created a very difficult situation for parents, as you try to figure out how to keep your kids active when everything in the city is closed!

We want to help you take the front seat in discipling your kids (and have fun while doing it). Lisa Grant, our kids ministry director, is putting together a ton of amazing resources for you. She'll be rolling those out shortly. Check the Bethel Kids page on our website for updates, and watch your email inboxes for messages from Lisa. 

Additionally, Pastor Riley is working on some excellent alternatives to his usual middle school and high school youth events. So, parents of teens and tweens, stay tuned to hear from him. 

3. Life Groups

We recognize that many Life Groups may be taking a break for the coming weeks, as people practice social distancing. Even if you're not gathering, we encourage you to stay in touch. Call, text, and email your group members. Pray with and for each other. Check in on those who may be isolated and alone, or in need of resources. Also consider online gatherings through social media sites, or programs like Zoom. 

Additionally, we are hosting 3 online Life Groups every week through our facebook page. Hosted by myself, and/or Pastor Adrian, two of these sessions will focus on discussion based on the Sunday sermon (like many of our Life Groups do regularly), along with prayer and encouragement. The third is a unique study based on a book of Philippians. To sign-up and stay informed check them out here.

4. Social Media

One of the best ways to remain connected is through our social media channels. If you don't currently "like", "follow" or "subscribe" to our pages, now is definitely the time to do it! Here are the links:

Church Facebook: @bethelchurch
Church Instagram: @bethel_church
Bethel Kids Facebook: @bethelkidspenticton
Bethel Kids Instagram: @bethelkidspenticton
Bethel Youth: @pencityyouth 
Church Youtube: Bethel Church Penticton

We plan to keep our social media channels very active in order to remain as connected as possible to our congregation. 

5. Giving

We are asking that during this time when we're not physically gathering, that you do not forget the financial needs of the church. We're doing our best to minimize costs, knowing that many people will experience financial hardships during this season. 

To give, you are welcome to drop by the church to give via cash, or check by dropping it off in the mail slot on the North-East side of the building. You can also give online. Just CLICK HERE. 

Additionally, you may want to consider giving something extra to the "benevolence fund", as many people are experiencing either reduced working hours, or complete layoffs. We want to be able to support them as much as possible. 

Thank You!
Thanks for reading this update, and remaining connected during this strange and challenging season. Thanks, also, for praying and trusting Jesus to do good work. 

If you have questions, concerns, needs, or anything, don't hesitate to contact the church office. We are maintaining regular hours (mon-fri 9am-4:30pm). Our team is here to serve. 

See you ONLINE on Sunday!

Pastor Dave