Dear Florida Conference family,
As a new week is upon us, we long for the return of normalcy. While we originally hoped to reopen our offices and churches by April 30, at this time we are moving that date out further. Though around the country, public consideration is starting to turn toward re-engaging, it is important to remember that the close quarters and prolonged exposure of our typical church gatherings mean merely congregating together puts those we care for at risk right now. Because we need to continue maintaining some “social distance,” we have decided that the most responsible course of action is to continue to worship in our homes. We will keep you updated as we closely monitor local and national government guidelines.
Likewise, following the Governor’s directive, the painful decision has been made to keep our schools closed for the remainder of the 2019-2020 school year. We are saddened that many students will miss coming-of-age milestones as the year closes. We know how much these traditions mean to our students, and we pray we can all find new, meaningful ways to mark and celebrate their special achievements in this difficult time.
With the Governor’s continuing stay-at-home order, many of our churches, members, loved ones, and neighbors are struggling to make ends meet. The Conference office will continue finding ways to support our local churches, just as we depend on our churches to be a source of hope and real assistance to their members and their communities.
We thank you for your continued faithfulness in all things. We have received many questions on how our members can best give their tithes and offerings from home. AdventistGiving is an easy and safe way to give online. For those who haven’t yet explored this option, we offer the following guides:
In English: https://youtu.be/dv7JPHzjdyE
In Spanish: https://youtu.be/Fp5No5PBi-M
Finally, it seems as though mainstream media rarely offers a message of hope. Instead of focusing on the world’s messaging, turn to the Living Word. Let scripture saturate your mind and your heart. None of us know what tomorrow will bring, but we can have peace with God’s promises. “I will hold you by your right hand, and afterward I will take you into Glory” Psalm 73:23-24.
God bless you always,
Florida Conference Administration