Grace Family,

As COVID-19, or coronavirus, continues to dominate the news and is a cause of concern and uncertainty within our community, we want to take a moment to address how as a church, we are planning for the weeks ahead. We know that God is sovereign, yet we also want to make every effort to pray and plan during this unpredictable time in our world, our country, and our community. 

At this time, we are not planning to cancel services or planned events. 

If state and local health officials announce closure recommendations, or if our church leadership feels it is in the best interest of our church family to cancel services or events, we will communicate updates with you through our website and emails. We will post updates as we have them at https://www.findinggrace.net/resources/coronavirus

On Tuesday, March 10, Governor DeWine recommended that: "all religious institutions consider limiting practices that could spread germs, such as shaking hands or sharing in a communal cup of wine during communion. Those in faith-based communities who are high-risk should consider staying home. Faith-based communities should also consider appropriate outreach to those who may not be able to attend regular services."  His full press release can be found here: https://coronavirus.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/covid-19/home/news-releases-news-you-can-use/gov-dewine-recommends-limiting-large-indoor-gatherings.

Our leadership team has been praying, learning, and talking, and we recommend the following steps: 

• If you or an immediate family member are sick with any communicable illness, please do not attend services or events until you are better. The CDC recommends returning at least 24 hours after a fever or signs of a fever. 

• If you are a high-risk individual or have concerns about potential exposure, please use your own judgment about attending services or events. 

• If you or someone in your home is diagnosed with COVID-19, please let a church leader know so we can support and care for you.

As always, to help prevent the spread of germs, please:

• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue if you sneeze, or cough into your elbow.  
• Wash your hands frequently with soap for 20 seconds, and encourage everyone in your home (especially your kids!) to do the same. 
• Get in the habit of not touching your face.
• Refrain from hugs or handshakes for the time being. 

Some final points and resources: 
Our leadership wants to assure you that we already take steps to keep our building clean. Frequently touched surfaces in the auditorium, bathrooms, and classrooms have been and will continue to be regularly cleaned and sanitized. 

• For your reference, and also to help you in knowing what to use for your own home, the link below takes you to a page that includes all cleaners that are known to the EPA for use against Novel Coronavirus. https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2020-03/documents/sars-cov-2-list_03-03-2020.pdf

• To view the informative and helpful video on Coronavirus please visit: https://www.cbc.ca/player/play/1692308547718?fbclid=IwAR2gsCuDWZbC476EAFXrruusgeBMO53Y_2zxGWOrtVg4cQJkQqSoMIiBAVA

Please pray for those around the world who have been infected and impacted by COVID-19, and pray that this uncertain time will lead to the spread of the Gospel.  We encourage you to take advantage of opportunities to share your faith and the hope that you have in Jesus Christ!  These are difficult times that produce amazing opportunities for God to move in powerful ways!