Pastor John Paul & Rebecca Cruz

We want to provide you with a current update on what’s happening at Encounter Ministries regarding the impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19).

Government leaders and public health officials are currently requesting that public gatherings be limited to 10 people or less, along with various other recommendations. This will obviously have a direct impact on our Sunday morning services. We have considered this matter carefully and have the following response.

II Cor. 6:7 says that we commend ourselves in every way: “with weapons of righteousness in the right hand and in the left”. Therefore, as a church, we are committed to fighting the coronavirus outbreak with a two-pronged assault. With our right hand, we stand in faith that no weapon formed against us will prosper (Isa. 54:17) and that no plague will come near our dwelling (Psalm 91:10). We will not fear the terror of night or the arrow that flies by day (Psalm 91:5). We believe and know that the gates of hell will not prevail against the church of Jesus Christ (Matthew 16:18).

With our left hand, we partner with our government leaders and public health officials and do our part to assist them as they work to limit the spread of the virus. This is important for several reasons. First, Rom. 13:1-5 tells us to submit to the governing authorities for they are God’s servants for our good (vs 4). As they make their best efforts to contain the virus, they are fulfilling God’s plan and it is right and necessary for us to assist them in it. Second, we must be mindful of our testimony to our community.  II Cor. 6:3-4 says: “We put no stumbling block in anyone’s path, so that our ministry will not be discredited. Rather, as servants of God we commend ourselves in every way.” By following the recommendations of our government leaders and public health officials, we commend our ministry to our community and demonstrate that their health is important to us.

Therefore, in response to the recent limitations on public gatherings, we are suspending our in-person Sunday morning meetings. Instead, Pastor John Paul will bring a message from the Lord over Facebook Live (www.facebook.com/EMPalouse) on Sunday morning at 10:30 am. For those who are unable to join us at that time, the message will remain posted on Facebook for viewing at any time.  We also plan to post the message on the church website (www.encounterministries.org). Tithes and offering can be given online through the church website (https://app.easytithe.com/App/Giving/encounterpullman).

Rebecca, myself and our staff are praying with you and for you. We are thankful for God’s perfect peace and guidance during this time.

United with you in Christ,

John Paul and Rebecca Cruz