November 19, 2020

Dear FBC Family,

It is the prayerful decision of the elders to amend our guidelines for gathering from “masks are recommended” to making masks a requirement while you are in the building. This does not apply to children under the age of 9 or anyone who has trouble breathing or is otherwise unable to remove a mask without assistance. We have made this decision based on the following reasons:

1. It is a tangible way of demonstrating love and respect for others who desire to worship together in person.
…Love your neighbor as yourself. Mark 12:31

2. It is our desire to be in compliance with the mandate of the governor, as a way of honoring his authority.
…the one who resists the authority is opposing God’s command. Romans 13:2

3. Given the rise in numbers of cases in WV, it seems the responsible course of action to    take.
Listen to counsel and receive instruction so that you may be wise later in life. Proverbs 19:20

It is not our desire to make anyone feel devalued based on their personal opinion concerning how this situation should be handled. We have made this decision in an effort to lead well.

We will continue our live video service and trust that those who decide not to attend in person, with a mask, will worship with us from the comfort of their own homes.

In Christ,
The Elders