Houses of Worship are Essential

First of all, I wanted to thank the Eagle Ridge Church family for providing your valuable input in the survey found in my weekly newsletter. God’s guidance, your involvement in the survey, and the remarkable events over the last 24 hours influenced this announcement.

Friday, May 22, President Trump declared, “Houses of worship are essential.” I certainly agree with this statement. He went on to say, “churches can open, and I will override any governor who attempts not to allow it” (myparaphrase).

The negative impact of COVID-19 on the world is tragic. Loss of life, job loss, and economic turmoil are all real travesties. As we begin to re-open and recover, wisdom in the process of doing so is essential. Through much prayer and guidance from the Lord, I believe God is moving me to start the process for physical gathering once again.

Currently, Eagle Ridge Church provides online worship services. These include 8:30, 10, 11:30 AM services broadcasted on Facebook every Sunday morning (PDT), posted on our website home page, and the Eagle Ridge Church App every Sunday morning. We will continue to offer these options. God blessed us tremendously through this avenue of spreading the Good News of Jesus Christ, and as a result, thousands will continue to hear about God’s love.

On Sunday, June 7th, we will begin again, gathering at 10:00 AM with one service. Social distancing protocols will be in place, including hand sanitizing stations, no-touch thermometers used, no handshaking, and face masks suggested (bring your own). Sanctuary seating spaced out for proper distancing, and additional outdoor seating available in the courtyard for those who prefer to be outside. There will be no children’s ministry this first Sunday back (children can sit with you). We will add additional services as the need arises.

On Sunday, May 31st, at 10:00 AM, there is going to be a service for staff and volunteer leaders only (not open for the general public), for preparation and to get the system I want to implement in place, so we are ready the following week for the congregation and guest.

If you are sick or have compromised health conditions, please stay home and watch our service online. If your not comfortable or ready to attend physically, I understand. As you can see, you have options for worshiping with your church family at Eagle Ridge.

Please pray for churches and pastors right now. Please pray for me. Undoubtedly, we are unable to please everyone as we proceed forward in our ministries, and I’m sure mistakes will certainly take place, but know your pastors are doing their best to move forward in God-honoring ways.

Blessings,
Pastor Steve

About slennertz

Dr. Steven Lennertz is Founder and Lead Pastor of Eagle Ridge Church in Menifee, California. Steve accepted Christ as his Savior and Lord in 1975 during what is known as the "Jesus Movement" at a Saturday night concert at Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa. As a young man, Steve worked in cabinet shops, and later obtained a Contractor’s License. He owned one of the Inland Empire’s premier cabinet shops for over twelve years. It was during this time Steve sensed God calling him into full time ministry. He surrendered to God’s leading to plant a church in Menifee in 1994. Steve has a passion for life and for helping others find their purpose. His in-depth teaching from God’s Word equips people to be effective followers of Jesus Christ. In addition to shepherding the flock at Eagle Ridge, Steve had served as a Chaplain for the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department and is now devoting all his energies at Eagle Ridge. Steve earned a Bachelor’s Degree from California Baptist University, a Master of Arts in Theology with a concentration in Pastoral Ministry from Fuller Theological Seminary, and a Doctor of Ministry Degree from Gateway Seminary in December of 2017. Pastor Steve is a native Californian; married for 40 years to Kathryn, who is also a graduate of CBU with a Bachelor, and a Masters in Education. Steve and his wife enjoy spending time with their family. They have a daughter, two sons, and they are especially blessed with eleven grandchildren. You can email Steve at steve@eagleridge.church View all posts by slennertz

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