Message from Pastor

Dear saints in Jesus Christ,

This evening, the elders, president, vice-president, and pastor had a scheduled meeting to discuss our way forward as a congregation in the face of the spread of COVID-19. Before our meeting even began, the decision was taken out of our hands. Today, Governor Kim Reynolds issued an emergency declaration, in which she mandated that ANY gathering of 10 people or more - religious activities included - is prohibited by law through the end of March.

What this means for Immanuel is this: through March 31, all normally scheduled, public activities - including group Bible studies, Confirmation classes, Lent suppers, choir rehearsals, and all worship services - are canceled. The church building will remain locked most of the time. However, if you need access to the building, please contact one of the individuals listed on the sign by the doors.

What this DOESN"T mean for Immanuel is the following:

1. The ministry of Word and Sacrament will NOT stop during this time. We are the Church, and we will continue to live as the body of Christ. We will, above all, "fear, love, and trust in God above all things." Daily devotions, recorded studies and sermons, and recorded services will be available online and in print.
2. Pastoral care will NOT stop during this time. As long as he is healthy, Pastor will continue to make visits, call on members, and offer the good gifts of God as he is able in a responsible manner, taking every precaution to ensure the health of both body and soul of everyone.
   
3. Acts of love for our neighbors will NOT stop during this time. As the Church, we are called to love our neighbors as ourselves. We will work together to identify the needs of those in our community, so that they can be taken care of through this whole ordeal.

Members of Immanuel will be receiving a letter in the mail in the next couple of days with more information about resources and opportunities during this period of time.

"Now may the God of peace himself sanctify you completely, and may your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. He who calls you is faithful; he will surely do it." (1 Thessalonians 5:23-24)

~Pastor Squire