Be Prepared
The novel coronavirus, COVID-19
"Then shall the kingdom of heaven be likened unto ten virgins, which took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bridegroom. And five of them were wise, and five were foolish. They that were foolish took their lamps, and took no oil with them: But the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps." Matthew 13: 1-4
The coronavirus has a pandemic and the president has issued a national state of emergency. I urge you to heighten your spiritual discernment concerning things to come. It is my prayer that we would walk in wisdom in this last day.
What is the coronavirus?
The novel coronavirus or COVID-19 is an infectious respiratory virus that was discovered in December 2019 in Wuhan, China. To date, it has affected over 100,000 people in over 70 countries including the United States. COVID-19 has claimed the lives of over 4,000 people.
What do we know about COVID-19?
According to the World Health Organization; “the most common symptoms of COVID-19 are fever, tiredness, and dry cough. Some patients may have aches and pains, nasal congestion, runny nose, sore throat or diarrhea. These symptoms are usually mild and begin gradually. Some people become infected but don’t develop any symptoms and don't feel unwell. Around 1 out of every 6 people who get COVID-19 becomes seriously ill and develops difficulty breathing. Older people, and those with underlying medical problems like high blood pressure, heart problems or diabetes, are more likely to develop serious illness. People with fever, cough and difficulty breathing should seek medical attention.” The WHO has reported a recovery rate of 80%. Unfortunately, COVID-19 can appear asymptomatic and testing can be inconclusive.
People can catch COVID-19 from others who have the virus. The disease can spread from person to person through small droplets from the nose or mouth which are spread when a person with COVID-19 coughs or exhales. These droplets land on objects and surfaces around the person. Other people then catch COVID-19 by touching these objects or surfaces, then touching their eyes, nose or mouth. People can also catch COVID-19 if they breathe in droplets from a person with COVID-19 who coughs, sneezes, or exhales droplets.
To date, there is no vaccine or antiviral drug to treat or prevent COVID-19. It takes a minimum of one year to create and distribute a vaccine.
How can I protect myself from COVID-19?
We have shared the following information with our congregation.
If you are sick or feeling unwell, stay home.
Wash your hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Use disposable cleaning wipes to sanitize high contact public surfaces like shopping carts, gas pumps, tables, and chairs.
As you enter and exit your car take care to wipe down your steering wheel, door handles, and even cell phone.
Use disposable gloves and respiratory masks in high contact areas.
Social Distancing: avoid unnecessary travel to high traffic public areas like theaters, shopping malls, kids activities (trampoline parks, arcades, playgrounds, etc.)
Store up food, water, and supplies: we believe it is important to be prepared for any emergency. while we may not be physically affected, we may experience shortages as the virus affects the economy.
pray and use discernment: allow the Holy Spirit to guide your day.
Will we continue to congregate?
Please continue to check the website for updates and be sure to update your contact information with the hospitality committee.