This past Friday, I sent out a version of this to our broader “Loop” list. The basic point: apart from a dramatic change, we will be unable to meet in person on Sundays, along with in any groups larger than ten, for the foreseeable future.

We wanted to take some time to lay out the next few weeks in Karis. Our city plans to end the stay at home at the end of the day, this Sunday. You’ve probably wondered what that means for us.

To begin, I want to remind you of some of our values. First, we want to love our community well. From the beginning, our slogan has been “in the city, for the city.” Second, we want to submit to our governing authorities. God has put them in place for our good. Our city has laid out a clear plan that we want to observe. Third, we want to use our freedom to serve. We want to lay it down for those around us - just like our Lord, who didn’t cling to His privileges, but emptied Himself for us. Fourth, we want to protect the vulnerable. Many in our population are placed at great risk by this virus. We don’t want to just think about ourselves, but those who could especially be harmed by COVID-19. We, the Karis elders, want to lead you in this direction. Our desire is that you, Karis, would lead those around you in this direction, as well.

Keeping all of that in mind, then, here’s how phase one will look in Karis Church, beginning Sunday, May 3rd. Again, this closely follows the guidelines laid out by the city.  

- With the strict social distancing order still in effect, we will continue all forms of ministry online, to include Sunday Gatherings.

- There will continue to be no on-site activity at 606 Ridgeway, except for work performed by our maintenance, custodial, and staff team.

- All ministry activity, including MCs, will be limited to groups of 10, outside the home, maintaining strict social distancing. This will allow DNA groups, portions of larger MCs (i.e. gender-specific hangouts), and smaller MCs, to gather in-person. 

Our hope is to update you every Friday, as to where things are heading. It’s our deep hope that sooner, rather than later, we can all gather again on Sundays. Yet we know that the church isn’t held back by this. God is in no way surprised by this. He still reigns. He’s still at work. Let’s trust Him together. And please pray for us, your Karis elders.

Now you may ask, why is Karis NOT meeting when it is currently allowed - with restrictions - by the city? See the stated values above. Because it’s permissible, it doesn’t mean it’s beneficial. In keeping movie theatres and other large venues closed, the city is sending a clear message - large groups aren’t wise or safe right now. Phase two, step one below clearly states, “No mass gatherings.” It’s seems like churches are being ruled as exceptions so as to not infringe upon religious liberty. However, as stated above, we are happy to lay down our liberty, as our Lord did for us, for the common good of our community.