19 Mar

Campion Academy student uplifts friends in prayer during social distancing

Loveland, Colorado … The extended spring break and social distancing, due to COVID-19 didn’t stop Milka from connecting with her friends and uplifting them spiritually. Last Sabbath, March 14, Milka, junior at Campion Academy, spent the morning calling some of her closest friends to pray for each one.

 

“My family has been going through a rough time,” she explained.  “I woke up Saturday morning thinking that as much as I’m going through a rough situation, I know that my friends have situations that need prayer too.”  She took the time to listen to her friends share their requests before praying with them. “My friends have been praying for me, and I thought it was time for me to pray for them as well,” she explained. 

 

One of the friends she called, Melody, shared, “I was just sitting in my kitchen eating and I got a call, and Milka asked me if she could pray for me.  I’ve never had that happen to me before. It meant a lot to know that someone actually cared enough to call just to pray. The fact that she still called even though she’s going through a lot, showed she cared about me and my situation.  It was admirable, and it made me want to reach out to others to pray for them too.” 

 

Milka strongly believes in the power of prayer. “There are situations we go through that we can’t do anything about except pray, but prayer means a lot,” she said.  “I knew God had used me in a special way, even though I may not ever fully realize how my prayers will impact my friends.”

 

With the constant stream of confusing information and worrisome stories regarding COVID-19, it is easy to feel helpless and overwhelmed. Milka set a perfect example for all of us, in taking the initiative to reach out and offer support to her friends. Her actions not only helped her put her own struggles in perspective, but also started a chain reaction of friends reaching out to friends. 

 

How can you be like Milka?

 

Jill Harlow; photo supplied

19 Mar

Commentary – To your health

Charles Dickens famously wrote, “It was the best of times; it was the worst of times.” Am I the only one who thinks we are currently living in the craziest of times? Opinions on the current fiasco we face vary widely, and I am not about to enter that realm in this post.

What I do want to focus on are some steps we can all take to minimize the impact of the coronavirus COVID-19 on us individually, no matter what others may or may not do. I decided to write about this in a post devoted to CPR – Conflict Prevention & Resolution, because challenging times can negatively impact relationships at work, at home and everywhere in between.

First off, please fight the urge to panic. While we surely must take this virus seriously and exercise due caution, it might help to remember that in 2010 60 million Americans got the Swine Flu, and most of us barely remember that “catastrophe.” Again, please err on the side of caution, but I hope to share better advice than to stock up on five years-worth of bottled water and three lifetimes worth of toilet paper, as some seem to be doing.

In terms of fighting off the virus, let me share what I believe to be some commonsense thoughts, but as we all know, common sense is not always common practice. Also, since I am not an expert in this field, I’ll ask you more questions than I will give advice.

First, this might be a great time to take stock of your physical condition. Are you getting adequate rest? Are you exercising 3-4 times per week, both for strength and cardiovascular health? Are you eating a proper and immune-building diet? I recently listened to Brain Maker by Dr. David Perlmutter. He makes a compelling argument that the state of your gut will dramatically impact your overall wellness. Based on the Standard American Diet, often abbreviated as SAD, most of us have severe problems in this area.

How are you doing in your mental health? Are you focusing on positive inputs, and limiting negative ones? It is certainly not my place to judge, but research is clear that an overabundance of negativity will result in poor health. Are you spending copious amounts of time watching the news, learning every detail possible about the scourge that has befallen our world? How much of your life do you spend watching crime dramas depicting murder and all sorts of mayhem? Again, I have no intention of playing God and telling you what you should or should not watch. Just realize please that what you put into your mind will affect you positively or negatively.

On that note, are you spending time learning new skills such as a foreign language or playing a musical instrument? In my youth, I was taught that we only have a limited number of brain cells and that they do not reproduce. Modern science has put that notion in the grave. Your brain is malleable, and with the right inputs and stimulation, you stand a better chance of having a healthy brain leading to an improved immune system and even of warding off Alzheimer Disease.

We are hearing so much these days about “social distancing,” but that is dangerous in and of itself. While we may benefit from “physical distancing,” or “proximity distancing,” we need to interact frequently with others if we are to maintain a healthy state of being. Oh, I know people can be a challenge at times. That’s why I write this blog post. But unless you are among the very few who are real hermits, please do not disregard your social life. You need others, and they need you.

Next, how are you doing spiritually? I remember how, after 9/11, people went to churches and other houses of worship in droves. After the initial shock wore off, those numbers dropped precipitously.  You may choose to ignore this aspect of life, but if you ask me, that would be a serious mistake. Why not use this present crisis to explore where you are Spiritually, by whatever definition or means you choose? Are you living as you want to live? Only you can answer that question.

And, lastly, how about your emotional state? Times like these are obviously stressful, and if we are not careful, they can turn us into emotional wrecks. So, the next time you’re feeling all is doom and gloom, I challenge you to ask yourself how many people on this planet would trade places with you right now? You take their problems, and they take yours? If you’re honest, the answer would likely be in the billions. That should not make you feel any better about your current state, but it does add a bit of context to it, don’t you think? Trust me, this too shall pass, and life will go back to normal – at least until the next calamity comes our way.

Ron Price MA is a member of RMC Executive Committee from Farmington, New Mexico. He has spent over 30 years as a mediator helping people resolve their differences with others. Read his blog at www.PlayNiceinYourSandbox.com; photo by Get Stencil

18 Mar

RMC Online: Streaming Church Services

Denver, Colorado … In the midst of the Coronavirus Crisis, I believe God is calling His people to worship Him. Yes, it is scary because we don’t know the future. But our precious friend, Jesus, promised to be with us every step of the way (Matt 28:20).

“There is nothing too difficult for Him to handle” (Jer. 32:17). As the wonderful hymn goes: “because He lives, I can face tomorrow.”  Let us therefore choose worship over worry.

While churches are shut down all over the Rocky Mountain Conference as of this Sabbath, we are providing our members and worshipers with some options for worship on Sabbath morning. While this is definitely not the same as being there in person, it still allows you to worship and receive as well as give a blessing during this unprecedented time in our country.

If your church is not listed, please check the Website of your church for details about congregational life. The following list includes Adventist Giving information.

Livestreaming: https://www.youtube.com/BoulderAdventistChurch

Giving: https://adventistgiving.org/#/org/ANGMCG/envelope/start

We will not be streaming on Facebook, but will have small daily devotionals on our Facebook page : https://www.facebook.com/BoulderAdventistChurch/

Website for live streaming and online giving: http://www.brightonsda.org

Direct link to live streaming: https://livestream.com/brightonsda

Facebook page: Brighton SDA Church

Livestreaming on Facebook address: Frank Wilson

Youtube channel live stream and online sermons: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcOHhHtGMRcLr-pBvF3-_kw

Facebook – Cortez Seventh-day Adventist Church

cortezco.adventistchurch.org

Facebook: For the Northeastern Wyoming District Sabbath School and church service on the Gillette Wyoming Seventh-day Adventist Church

LiveStream:  https://www.youtube.com/goldensdachurch 

Worship 11am, Sabbath School 1pm, & Study on the Seven Seals of Revelation 3pm

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/goldensdachurch

Giving: https://adventistgiving.org/#/org/ANGMHV/envelope/start

Streaming to both Facebook and YouTube, as well as archiving it there:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6LOTALqb6bVQCqhSAMFwwA

https://www.facebook.com/sdagj/

Online giving at: https://adventistgiving.org/#/org/ANGMI1/envelope/start

All is listed on our page at sdagj.org

Facebook page: Pueblo 1st SDA Church (only to watch)

YouTube: PSDA Streems (only to watch)

ZOOM: 323-072-3216 (watch and participate)

Services on Sabbath – Sabbath School: 10:00 a.m. Sermon: 11:00 a.m.

Wednesday Bible study 7:00 pm (only ZOOM – available throughout the year)

For more on the Church and COVID-19:

Message from the World Church President, Ted NC Wilson
https://news.adventist.org/en/all-news/news/go/2020-03-17/president-of-the-seventh-day-adventist-world-church-ted-nc-wilson-gives-message-regarding-coronav/

Covid-19: Resources for Church & Ministries Going Digital
http://campaign.r20.constantcontact.com/render?m=1101578508634&ca=c1b0b851-78c6-42fb-bbf8-981987d11214

–Mickey Mallory; photo by Rajmund Dabrowski

18 Mar

Mid-America Union offers encouragement and resources for COVID-19

The coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic is now impacting all states in our territory. Therefore, the Mid-America Union Conference, in consultation with the leaders of our six conferences, is recommending immediate steps to help contain the spread of the coronavirus.

While the MAUC office in Lincoln, Nebraska, is currently open, we are complying with the CDC guidelines limiting the size of public gatherings to 10 people until March 31. We have implemented a modified work schedule, which may change at any time if new recommendations are issued.

“Despite the uncertainties of this virus, we are greatly comforted when we remember that God is still in charge,” said MAUC president Gary Thurber. “And because He carries us in the palm of His hand we have nothing to fear. ‘I prayed to the Lord, and he answered me. He freed me from all my fears’” (Ps. 34:4).

BEING PREPARED

To date, seven states in Mid-America territory have declared a State of Emergency. Since the intensity of the outbreak may differ according to geographic region, response plans for churches, schools and other organizations may need individual adjustments.

Many entities are currently implementing remote operations. Throughout this situation, members are encouraged to continue supporting the ministries of their church by mailing tithes and offerings, or through AdventistGiving online. The Adventist Giving App is safe and simple to use and works well with both Android and Apple platforms, if your church is signed up.

“Mailing tithes and offerings is always appropriate,” said MAUC treasurer Troy Peoples. “If you don’t have a tithe envelope, please be sure to indicate on a separate piece of paper where funds should go.”

MAUC secretary Gil Webb stated that members should stay informed by monitoring information from reliable news sources, including local health authority announcements. “We encourage all to be in prayer for this situation, to use common sense and follow the recommendations of their local health authorities,” he said.

MAKING DECISIONS

Based on the current information, organizations can build criteria for deciding how to move forward:

  1. The CDC states that their recommendation is not intended to supersede the advice of local public health officials.
    1. Have you reviewed the recommendations of your local city and state health officials? What guidance have they given?
    2. If they give a mandate, you should follow their orders.
  2. Events of any size should only be continued if they can be carried out with adherence to guidelines for protecting vulnerable populations, hand hygiene, and social distancing.  When feasible, organizers should modify events to be virtual.
    1. Are you able to ascertain the level of concern from your constituents and the level of adherence to meet or not meet physically?
    2. Have you identified your vulnerable populations? Can you make contact with them to advise them not to attend your meeting?
    3. Are you able to arrange your meeting so that hand hygiene and social distancing can be done effectively?
    4. Is this a meeting that can be conducted virtually?
    5. What considerations need to be made for second and third level impacts of your decisions?
  1. What virtual options do you have available to conduct operations?
    1. Should a policy for working remotely be established?
    2. Do you have the technology in place to conduct essential operations remotely?
    3. How long can/should you sustain remote operations?

ACTIONS OF OTHER CHURCH ENTITIES

Central States Conference

Dakota Conference

Iowa-Missouri Conference

Kansas-Nebraska Conference

Minnesota Conference

Rocky Mountain Conference

North American Division 

NAD administration, in consultation with leaders of the nine unions, has voted that all staff should cease all travels immediately, staff should work remotely, and has canceled or postponed all events and meetings until June 24, including the CALLED Pastors’ Family Convention [rescheduled for June 2022].

General Conference

As of March 15, the Seventh-day Adventist Church World Headquarters is asking employees to work remotely until March 30. Although the Pathways to Health event has been cancelledGeneral Conference session plans are still in place. Check for updates

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

World Health Organization 

CDC checklist for community and faith-based leaders

AdventHealth  

Adventist Risk Management

Example of  comprehensive plan for conferences 

Example of comprehensive plan for churches

Brenda Dickerson; iStock photo; text reprinted from https://outlookmag.org/mid-america-union-offers-encouragement-and-resources-for-covid-19/

17 Mar

RMC Stewardship: How to give during COVID-19

Denver, Colorado … As we go through a period of suspended church services, it is important for us to continue to remember the faithfulness of the Lord by returning our tithes and offerings. God is always faithful to His word and it is through giving that we express our love to Him and continue to move His work forward. Hebrews 10:23 NLT says: “Let us hold tightly without wavering to the hope we affirm, for God can be trusted to keep His promise.”

Since we will not be meeting together as churches for a while, below are instructions as to how we can give electronically.

HOW DOES A CHURCH SIGN UP FOR ADVENTISTGIVING?

  • Signing up with AdventistGiving is a fairly simple process.  The attached form just needs to be completed by the church treasurer and the pastor, and then it should be forwarded to [email protected].  She will sign it and forward it to the NAD to complete your registration.

HOW DO I GIVE THROUGH ADVENTISTGIVING?

  • Giving through AdventistGiving is also easy.  Many churches have elected to put a link on their websites that will direct people to their AdventistGiving site, but donors can also donate directly through the adventistgiving.org website or through the AdventistGiving app that you can download from the App Store or Google Play.

ADVENTISTGIVING INSTRUCTIONS

  • Go to adventistgiving.org and start typing typing the name of the church that you wish to donate to in the center box.
  • As you type, a list of churches that match that name will appear.   The (Enrolled)at the end of the name tells you whether that church has signed up for AdventistGiving or not.
  • Select the name of the church you wish to donate to.  You will be taken directly to the online Tithe & Offering envelope for that church.
  • After filling out the envelope, hit continue.  You will then be asked to choose whether you wish to log in, register for an account, or continue as a guest.  If you choose “Guest”, you do have the option of giving anonymously, if you do not wish to receive a tax receipt.
  • You may then pay with a credit or debit card, or with an electronic check.  We do want to mention that the fees are significantly lower for the conference with electronic checks as opposed to credit or debit cards.

RMC Treasury

17 Mar

RMC Youth and COVID-19

Denver, Colorado … In these turbulent times, we are confident that God is present. Although we face social isolation and uncertainty for the future, we find strength in our faith. Remember, God did not give us a spirit of fear, but one of power and love (2 Timothy 1:7). To our friends who are facing the postponement and/or cancellation of so many important events, whether it be our students at Mile High and Campion missing out on sporting events, class trips, spring break at Disney World, etc., our college students facing similar cancellations and the new challenge of distance learning in upper level labs, or any of the myriad of other challenging situations that we are each facing— we understand and feel your frustration.

We share your disbelief in what is taking place. If you’d like someone to talk with, we are available, so just send one of us a note and we’ll schedule a time to chat. While we cannot be within 6 feet of you (wink, wink), we are in this with you.

Finally, our team would like to affirm each of our communities as they seek to move forward in taking action that protects the vulnerable among us. We are strongest when we are united in action. Hold each other up and don’t give up hope. Our prayer is always this, that regardless of the circumstances, each member of our community continues to live their greatest story through the power of Jesus.

On Tuesday, March 10, 2020, Governor Jared Polis declared a state of emergency in Colorado following growth in the number of novel coronavirus cases confirmed in the state, stating that “the quicker we can contain the spread of coronavirus in Colorado, the better we’ll be able to protect our most vulnerable populations.” Colorado is currently advising organizations and businesses to follow the CDC recommendations for event and community gatherings. At this time, directives are to minimize the frequency of gatherings, reduce the number of people gathered at any one event or time, and to increase the space between people in public.

In alignment with the RMC’s decision to postpone town halls, suspension of church services, as well as State of Colorado recommendations and guidelines put forth from the Center for Disease Control and World Health Organization, the RMC Youth Ministry Department will be canceling our events and gatherings to occur in the next 30 days. At this time, this includes only the Global Youth Day service projects on March 21 and the Young Adult Winter Retreat on March 27, 28 and 29.

We will continue to monitor the situation and issue new announcements for our events scheduled to occur on or after Friday, April 10, 2020. At this time, we will be moving forward with plans to hold the Adventurer Fun Day, Pathfinder Fair, and Summer Camp programming as currently scheduled.

Global Youth Day – in accordance with General Conference directives and the current push to promote social distancing, we are cancelling GYD 2020 in the RMC. “e GC is switching focus to a day of prayer. If you’re interested in joining, 2 hours of prayer will be hosted on the GC Facebook Page @gcyouthministries from 6-8 a.m. EST or 8-10 p.m. EST on Sabbath March 21, 2020. Please reach out to our department if you’d like recommendations and ideas for doing a “Global Youth Day at Home.”

Young Adult Winter Retreat – effective immediately, we are cancelling the Young Adult Winter Retreat that was to take place on March 27-29 in Silverthorne, CO. Summit County is a hot spot for the coronavirus and we are uneasy to place young adults from around our conference in close quarters for an entire weekend. Our department will be issuing full refunds to each individual registered for the event. We share in your disappointment and pray that you will help as you can to protect the most vulnerable in our communities.

Adventurer Fun Day & Pathfinder Fair – at this time, we plan on holding these events as scheduled. We will monitor the situation in the coming weeks and will send updates as the statewide and national situation develops.

Summer Camp – to occur as currently scheduled; beginning on June 12, 2020 and concluding on August 2, 2020. Effective immediately, we’re promising that families can make a reservation for Summer Camp 2020 without fear of a financial repercussions relating to cancellation because of COVID-19. We will offer free reservation transfers and/or refunds to families whose campers cannot attend any of our camp sessions for Coronavirus related reasons.

Follow further decisions and developments follow www.rmcyouth.org

RMC Youth Department

17 Mar

Lifestyle and the Coronavirus COVID-19

Denver, Colorado … What we would like to share is not a repeat of the instructions sent out by the CDC, but a special focus on our lifestyle. The reason that this is so important as it addresses the second stage of fighting this virus. The important precautions of social distancing, hand washing etc. are very important to protect us from the virus.  But if the virus gets past these precautions, we can still add an important layer of protection, especially to those most vulnerable. Our body has a powerful immune system but there are things that we can do to either enhance or decrease its effectiveness. The following are real, healthy lifestyle practices that each of us should take seriously.

These steps are especially valuable for those with preexisting conditions and are at high risk.  But you are not powerless, there are things you can do now to perhaps even save your life.

  1. Avoid high fatty foods and sugar:

For many of us, our daily routine has changed, and we are probably under added stress.  It is easy to turn to comfort foods and just eat more than normal.  These two changes in our diet will reduce our immune system considerably.  This is not a time to ignore our most powerful ally.  Eat regular healthy meals, avoid refined foods (sugar) and don’t snack.

  1. Eat high nutrient foods:
    1. Eat more fruits and vegetables, especially dark green vegies and bright fruits such as berries
    2. Eat more cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, red cabbage, kale and brussels sprouts, which activate the disease fighting white blood cells.
  1. Get plenty of exercise:
    1. Exercise increase the circulation and gets the white blood cells out where they can fight the invaders, in this case the virus.
    2. Exercising outdoors is best because you get fresh air and sunlight as well. The Ultraviolet light kills viruses and increases the production of Vit. D, another disease fighter.
  1. Vitamins can help, too:
    1. You can take vitamins like D3 or vitamin C or get it from the sun and the foods you eat.
    2. A few more supplements that are very powerful are n-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC) and Zink that is toxic to the coronavirus.

Don’t just sit around and worry, follow good hygiene, get out and move, and start eating more whole plant foods in your diet.  And you will take a big bite out of this threat and just maybe you will have a healthier life because of it.

For an update on what you can do, see our Facebook page, check out the videos and comments.  or go to our website www.rmlc.online

Rick Mautz, The Rocky Mountain Lifestyle Center

17 Mar

RMC Women’s Ministries and COVID-19

Denver, Colorado … While we have had to postpone our “Treasured” Mother/Daughter retreat March 29 due to COVID-19, the commitment of the women of the Rocky Mountain Conference can’t be stopped! When it comes to compassion, care, and service, things might just look a little different for a bit.

More than one of our women have posted on social media that they are willing to get groceries or other supplies for anyone who needs them. Others have suggested are already writing cards to send to shut-in elderly people. Still other women are sharing ideas for parents from great websites they’ve seen, including free art classes for kids, virtual museum tours and more,

You are welcome to join in our Thursday night Zoom Video Conference Bible study at 6:30 p.m. each Thursday –  https://zoom.us/j/197074881  At this point, we are still moving forward with our Women Called to Lead leadership training for all women to be held in Grand Junction April 24-25. More details can be found at www.rmcsda.org/women. We haven’t postponed or cancelled our commitment to living out loud for Jesus!

DeeAnn Bragaw; photo supplied

16 Mar

Rocky Mountain Conference votes responses to COVID-19

Rocky Mountain Conference votes responses to COVID-19

Denver, Colorado … The coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted our daily life. Among all communities, churches are also affected. These are unusual times that we are living in. Exceptional steps are being taken by our faith community in our Conference. The Rocky Mountain Conference leadership is taking steps addressing the human safety of our members and communities, as well as needed adjustments to our functions as a church.  As this is an ever-evolving situation we will continue to inform our churches as new developments take place.

At the same time, we can and must be an aid to those in need and serve them in every way possible. That is the call the we are given as Seventh-day Adventist Christians.

In an effort to cooperate with our local and national advisories to protect our church members, workers and communities, the Rocky Mountain Conference administration has voted the following:

RMC Office is going virtual – The office will not be open to the public and most of the workers will work from home until Monday, April 6.  Administration and ministry functions will be carried on through internet, phone and web communication.  If you have any question, please call or email the office department that you wish to reach.  Phone messages will automatically be forwarded from the office to personnel.

Travel restrictions are imposed for departmental staff and invited guests regarding domestic and international travel.

Church services are suspended – All RMC church services and gatherings are suspended until Monday, April 6.  At this critical time, it is important that social distancing is practiced in cooperation with local and national guidelines.  Although this is painful for all of us, as we so much like to gather and support each other, it is a necessary step to aid in containment of this virus. Information of streaming of sermons in different churches will be announced.

Church School temporary closures – All church schools operated within RMC will be temporarily closed until Monday, April 6.  It is planned that classes will resume on that Monday morning. The RMC Education Department will announce availability of distance learning to be offered to all RMC schools.

May we continue to pray about safety for all members and the communities in which we live. May the faith, not fear prevail. “God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and love and of a sound mind” (2 Timothy 1:7 NKJV)

Ed Barnett, president
Eric Nelson, VP for administration
George Crumley, VP for finance

La Asociación de Rocky Mountain toma los siguientes acuerdos para enfrentar el COVID-19

Denver, Colorado … La pandemia de coronavirus COVID-19 ha interrumpido nuestra vida diaria. Entre todos los segmentos de nuestras comunidades, las iglesias también se ven afectadas. Estos son tiempos inusuales en los que vivimos. Nuestra comunidad de fe está tomando medidas excepcionales en nuestra Conferencia. El liderazgo de la Conferencia de Rocky Mountain está tomando medidas para abordar la seguridad humana de nuestros miembros y comunidades, así como los ajustes necesarios a nuestras funciones como iglesia. Como esta es una situación en constante evolución, continuaremos informando a nuestras iglesias a medida que se produzcan nuevos desarrollos.

Al mismo tiempo, podemos y debemos ser una ayuda a los necesitados y servirles de toda forma posible. Ese es el llamado que se nos da como cristianos Adventistas del Séptimo Día.

En un esfuerzo por cooperar con los avisos locales y nacionales para proteger a los miembros de nuestra iglesia, trabajadores y población en general. La administración de la Conferencia de Rocky Mountain ha votado lo siguiente:

Las oficinas de RMC se está volviendo virtual: No estará abierta al público y la mayoría de los trabajadores lo hará desde su casa hasta el lunes 6 de abril. Las funciones de administración y ministerio se realizarán a través de internet, teléfono y comunicación “web”. Si tiene alguna pregunta, llame o envíe un correo electrónico al departamento de la oficina que desea contactar. Los mensajes telefónicos se enviarán automáticamente desde la oficina al personal.

Viajes: Se imponen restricciones de viaje para el personal departamental y los invitados a los viajes nacionales e internacionales.

Los cultos de la iglesia están suspendidos: todos los reuniones, cultos y actividades de iglesia de RMC están suspendidos hasta el lunes 6 de abril. En este momento crítico, es importante que se practique el distanciamiento social en cooperación con las directrices locales y nacionales. Aunque esto es doloroso para todos nosotros, ya que nos gusta mucho reunirnos y apoyarnos mutuamente, es un paso necesario para ayudar a contener el virus. En los próximos Nuggets y portal de la Conferencia se anunciará información sobre la transmisión de sermones de nuestras iglesias.

Cierres temporales de la escuela de la iglesia: todas las escuelas de iglesia que operan dentro de RMC permanecerán cerradas temporalmente hasta el lunes 6 de abril. Está previsto que las clases se reanuden en esa fecha por la mañana. El Departamento de Educación de RMC anunciará la disponibilidad de educación a distancia que se ofrecerá a todas las escuelas de RMC.

Continuemos orando por la seguridad de todos los feligreses y nuestra sociedad en general. Que prevalezca la fe, no el miedo. “Dios no nos ha dado un espíritu de temor, sino de poder y amor y de valentía” (2 Timoteo 1: 7).

Ed Barnett, RMC president; Eric Nelson, VP for Administration; George Crumley, VP for finance

Translated by Vanessa Alarcon and Ruben Rivera

16 Mar

North American Division leadership announces transition to virtual office in response to COVID – 19

Columbia, Maryland … Due to the rapidly changing situation with the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, the administration of the North American Division (NAD) has elected to transition its corporate office in Columbia, Maryland, to a virtual operation. Starting at the end of business on March 17, 2020, and moving forward until March 30, 2020, all employees will be required to work from home, and all efforts are being made to ensure that day-to-day operations will continue without interruption. NAD administration will evaluate the situation on March 27, 2020, to decide if virtual operations need to be extended.

“We are confident God will be with His people during this time,” Daniel R. Jackson, NAD president, said to employees during the March 16 staff meeting announcing the transition to a virtual office.

Earlier, the administration announced the cancellation or postponement of all NAD-sponsored meetings and events, as well as travel for all NAD staff through June 24, 2020.

NAD leadership is urging all union and conference leaders in the division to carefully consider advisements given by their state and local governments regarding the safety of their communities.

Everyone plays an important role in helping to contain the spread of COVID-19. As Christians, we are called to treat all our neighbors with love and compassion. We must give prayerful thought to how we can be a compassionate blessing to those most impacted by this situation. “Thus says the Lord of hosts: ‘Execute true justice, Show mercy and compassion Everyone to his brother’” (Zechariah 7:9, NKJV).

Click here to read this statement on the NAD website; click here to read the previous statement from the NAD on COVID-19.

NAD NewsPoints