Important Update from Pastor Evan (5/7)
Greetings Friends!
I hope you are doing well and experiencing the peace and hope of Christ in these challenging days. As a part of Indiana’s “Back on Track” plan, a number of phases are outlined for easing COVID-19 restrictions in the weeks and months to come. As a part of that plan, churches are allowed to resume physical gatherings beginning this weekend, provided proper social distancing practices are in place. As a result, many have asked about our plan here at Pierce for re-opening the physical church building. My honest response to that question is “I really don’t know,” as there’s still so much to learn and think through as restrictions are lifted and the implications become more clear. That being said, there are several things I do know and would like to share with you below:
First, based on guidance we have received from Bishop Trimble of the Indiana Conference of The United Methodist Church, we will not hold worship services inside our building any sooner than June 14th. I know this is difficult news for many, but please understand this is a decision made entirely out of love for you, your loved ones, and the larger community. As 2 Timothy 1:7 tells us, “God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.” As followers of Jesus, we do not answer to fear, yet we are called to exercise wisdom, love, and careful consideration for others. Just this week, we have been made aware of the first confirmed cases of COVID-19 in our church community...this has served as an important reminder to our church leadership as we seek to be faithful to God and each other in our ministry context. When it comes to how churches respond to restrictions being lifted, there is no “one-size-fits-all” approach, so we appreciate your grace and understanding as we lead in ways we feel are most appropriate for Pierce in this uncharted territory.
Second, the church continues to be about the people, not the building...this is a critical reminder as our current experience continues. We recognize a core element of our faith is the importance of gathering physically together in worship. We grieve that we still cannot do that for a season, but refuse to neglect meeting together. Instead, the act of “meeting together” will simply look different for a while longer. We are continuing to discern how the Lord is at work among us, creating new opportunities for connection in the weeks and months to come.
Third, as we discern these new ways of being the church and joining in the ongoing work of God in our midst, we invite you to a week of church-wide prayer and fasting beginning this Sunday, May 10th. We are desperate to walk deeply in the way of Jesus, and believe God is inviting all of us into a time of dedicated, intentional, and bold prayer. This is not a time for standing on the sidelines or sitting in the bleachers as a bystander. This is an “all hands on deck” moment and an invitation for you to step onto the playing field. Why do we exist? Where is God already at work? What is the Lord’s will for us in this season? Help us discern and discover the answers together. More details about this will be shared very soon, especially during livestream worship on May 10th. The Lord is at work in powerful ways among us, and we are praying for and seeking a new outpouring of the Holy Spirit in these days.
This is a season of life that will continue to require a collective spirit of faith, trust, grace, hope, prayer, humility, commitment, and resiliency. In all of this, our primary goal is not to be focused on how soon we can get back into the building, but rather, how deep can we grow in our love for Jesus and others? The road ahead is uncertain, but we are filled with excitement as we follow the One who is steadfast and faithful. Will you join us in the journey?
With Deep Love,
Pastor Evan
I hope you are doing well and experiencing the peace and hope of Christ in these challenging days. As a part of Indiana’s “Back on Track” plan, a number of phases are outlined for easing COVID-19 restrictions in the weeks and months to come. As a part of that plan, churches are allowed to resume physical gatherings beginning this weekend, provided proper social distancing practices are in place. As a result, many have asked about our plan here at Pierce for re-opening the physical church building. My honest response to that question is “I really don’t know,” as there’s still so much to learn and think through as restrictions are lifted and the implications become more clear. That being said, there are several things I do know and would like to share with you below:
First, based on guidance we have received from Bishop Trimble of the Indiana Conference of The United Methodist Church, we will not hold worship services inside our building any sooner than June 14th. I know this is difficult news for many, but please understand this is a decision made entirely out of love for you, your loved ones, and the larger community. As 2 Timothy 1:7 tells us, “God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.” As followers of Jesus, we do not answer to fear, yet we are called to exercise wisdom, love, and careful consideration for others. Just this week, we have been made aware of the first confirmed cases of COVID-19 in our church community...this has served as an important reminder to our church leadership as we seek to be faithful to God and each other in our ministry context. When it comes to how churches respond to restrictions being lifted, there is no “one-size-fits-all” approach, so we appreciate your grace and understanding as we lead in ways we feel are most appropriate for Pierce in this uncharted territory.
Second, the church continues to be about the people, not the building...this is a critical reminder as our current experience continues. We recognize a core element of our faith is the importance of gathering physically together in worship. We grieve that we still cannot do that for a season, but refuse to neglect meeting together. Instead, the act of “meeting together” will simply look different for a while longer. We are continuing to discern how the Lord is at work among us, creating new opportunities for connection in the weeks and months to come.
Third, as we discern these new ways of being the church and joining in the ongoing work of God in our midst, we invite you to a week of church-wide prayer and fasting beginning this Sunday, May 10th. We are desperate to walk deeply in the way of Jesus, and believe God is inviting all of us into a time of dedicated, intentional, and bold prayer. This is not a time for standing on the sidelines or sitting in the bleachers as a bystander. This is an “all hands on deck” moment and an invitation for you to step onto the playing field. Why do we exist? Where is God already at work? What is the Lord’s will for us in this season? Help us discern and discover the answers together. More details about this will be shared very soon, especially during livestream worship on May 10th. The Lord is at work in powerful ways among us, and we are praying for and seeking a new outpouring of the Holy Spirit in these days.
This is a season of life that will continue to require a collective spirit of faith, trust, grace, hope, prayer, humility, commitment, and resiliency. In all of this, our primary goal is not to be focused on how soon we can get back into the building, but rather, how deep can we grow in our love for Jesus and others? The road ahead is uncertain, but we are filled with excitement as we follow the One who is steadfast and faithful. Will you join us in the journey?
With Deep Love,
Pastor Evan
Statement from Pastor Evan (3/17)
Greetings Pierce Family!
It feels as though the world is changing hour by hour with new updates regarding closures, protocols, CDC recommendations, government guidelines, and so forth. As I arrived at church on Monday morning, I found myself with a new outlook on my work, trying to figure out a different approach to ministry in this crazy world of COVID-19. I know I’m not alone. Yet in the midst of the storm, I find myself with a heart of trust and peace for how this change in life could serve as an opportunity to better connect with God and others. If you haven’t already, please watch our March 15th online worship experience in which I held a “sermon conversation” with Hope Brown, Kevin Duecker, and Jeff Aupperle about finding and sharing the peace of Christ in the midst of the storm. You can find the video on our social media accounts, website, or YouTube page. We pray it is a blessing to you and your family!
As we move forward in this new season, I want to update you on temporary changes coming to the Pierce Church family. Please know these decisions are made in a spirit of prayer and faithful discernment to do what is wise, thoughtful, respectful to government authorities, obedient to God, and in the best interest of each other. Below is pertinent information for you as our church seeks to help “flatten the curve” and protect our community:
Cancellation of Events and Gatherings
Effective immediately and until further notice, we are suspending all physical events and gatherings in our building, including Sunday morning worship. We are doing our best to abide by the protocols and directives established by the Center for Disease Control, Governor Holcomb, and Bishop Julius Trimble of the Indiana United Methodist Church. How long will this last? To be honest, we’re not sure, but we know it will continue for at least the next four weeks. Unfortunately, this will include Easter, but we’re going to have a great celebration once we’re able to gather again! As a result of this closure, our Sunday worship will move exclusively online at 10:30am every Sunday…more information is available on that below. We will continue to monitor this decision and will be sure to update you with any changes.
Church Online Platform
As of today, we have launched a new online livestream page for worship services at https://piercechurch.online.church/. We intend for this to become our virtual hub for gathering in worship over the coming weeks. It includes the ability to watch our services, chat with others, request prayer, give, and connect virtually in other ways. We are excited about how this platform will continue to bring us together during this season.
Opportunities to Give
I know these are difficult times, but I urge you to please continue financially supporting the church in the weeks and months to come. While we will take measures to reduce operating costs, there is still a physical building to support, staff to pay, and outreach ministries to facilitate. This is the moment for the church to rise up in caring for the vulnerable, serving the community, and shining the light of Christ. Simply put, your gifts are what will make that happen. Please remember your commitment and call to give generously. You can either mail checks to the church or give online by visiting www.piercechurch.org. Remember: we get to!
Loving Our Community
We desire to radically love and serve our community as the hands and feet of Jesus Christ in the midst of these uncertain times. First of all, if you are vulnerable or at-risk and in need of some sort of assistance during this season, please call the church office at 765-998-2985 or email office@piercechurch.org. We will find a way to help you…please reach out. I encourage all of you to please check on your neighbors, call up your friends, and keep an eye out for those who are at-risk among us. We are actively discerning how we can collectively love and serve our community in this season and will be sure to let you know of different opportunities as they arise.
Resources for You
I know this is a surreal experience. If at any time you are in need of pastoral care, a word of prayer, or simply someone to talk to, please call the church office or email me at evan.guse@inumc.org and we will set up a time to get in touch. As your pastor and on behalf of the staff, know that we love you and desire to support you the best we can in these weeks and months. For more resources and to stay up-to-date on church events, please follow our social media accounts and visit www.piercechurch.org/updates. This page will be regularly updated with discipleship tools, family resources, church information, and other helpful links. This will be the digital information hub during this season, so check back often.
Radical Reorientation
Please understand that Pierce Church is not shutting down! Instead, we are activating as the body of Christ in new and exciting ways for a unique and challenging season. This is the time for radical reorientation and for reimagining social distancing as a time for deeper connection with God and others. The Holy Spirit is with us and we’ll get through this together! As Paul writes in Ephesians 3:20-21, “Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.”
In Christ’s Love,
Pastor Evan
It feels as though the world is changing hour by hour with new updates regarding closures, protocols, CDC recommendations, government guidelines, and so forth. As I arrived at church on Monday morning, I found myself with a new outlook on my work, trying to figure out a different approach to ministry in this crazy world of COVID-19. I know I’m not alone. Yet in the midst of the storm, I find myself with a heart of trust and peace for how this change in life could serve as an opportunity to better connect with God and others. If you haven’t already, please watch our March 15th online worship experience in which I held a “sermon conversation” with Hope Brown, Kevin Duecker, and Jeff Aupperle about finding and sharing the peace of Christ in the midst of the storm. You can find the video on our social media accounts, website, or YouTube page. We pray it is a blessing to you and your family!
As we move forward in this new season, I want to update you on temporary changes coming to the Pierce Church family. Please know these decisions are made in a spirit of prayer and faithful discernment to do what is wise, thoughtful, respectful to government authorities, obedient to God, and in the best interest of each other. Below is pertinent information for you as our church seeks to help “flatten the curve” and protect our community:
Cancellation of Events and Gatherings
Effective immediately and until further notice, we are suspending all physical events and gatherings in our building, including Sunday morning worship. We are doing our best to abide by the protocols and directives established by the Center for Disease Control, Governor Holcomb, and Bishop Julius Trimble of the Indiana United Methodist Church. How long will this last? To be honest, we’re not sure, but we know it will continue for at least the next four weeks. Unfortunately, this will include Easter, but we’re going to have a great celebration once we’re able to gather again! As a result of this closure, our Sunday worship will move exclusively online at 10:30am every Sunday…more information is available on that below. We will continue to monitor this decision and will be sure to update you with any changes.
Church Online Platform
As of today, we have launched a new online livestream page for worship services at https://piercechurch.online.church/. We intend for this to become our virtual hub for gathering in worship over the coming weeks. It includes the ability to watch our services, chat with others, request prayer, give, and connect virtually in other ways. We are excited about how this platform will continue to bring us together during this season.
Opportunities to Give
I know these are difficult times, but I urge you to please continue financially supporting the church in the weeks and months to come. While we will take measures to reduce operating costs, there is still a physical building to support, staff to pay, and outreach ministries to facilitate. This is the moment for the church to rise up in caring for the vulnerable, serving the community, and shining the light of Christ. Simply put, your gifts are what will make that happen. Please remember your commitment and call to give generously. You can either mail checks to the church or give online by visiting www.piercechurch.org. Remember: we get to!
Loving Our Community
We desire to radically love and serve our community as the hands and feet of Jesus Christ in the midst of these uncertain times. First of all, if you are vulnerable or at-risk and in need of some sort of assistance during this season, please call the church office at 765-998-2985 or email office@piercechurch.org. We will find a way to help you…please reach out. I encourage all of you to please check on your neighbors, call up your friends, and keep an eye out for those who are at-risk among us. We are actively discerning how we can collectively love and serve our community in this season and will be sure to let you know of different opportunities as they arise.
Resources for You
I know this is a surreal experience. If at any time you are in need of pastoral care, a word of prayer, or simply someone to talk to, please call the church office or email me at evan.guse@inumc.org and we will set up a time to get in touch. As your pastor and on behalf of the staff, know that we love you and desire to support you the best we can in these weeks and months. For more resources and to stay up-to-date on church events, please follow our social media accounts and visit www.piercechurch.org/updates. This page will be regularly updated with discipleship tools, family resources, church information, and other helpful links. This will be the digital information hub during this season, so check back often.
Radical Reorientation
Please understand that Pierce Church is not shutting down! Instead, we are activating as the body of Christ in new and exciting ways for a unique and challenging season. This is the time for radical reorientation and for reimagining social distancing as a time for deeper connection with God and others. The Holy Spirit is with us and we’ll get through this together! As Paul writes in Ephesians 3:20-21, “Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.”
In Christ’s Love,
Pastor Evan
Statement from Pastor Evan Guse (3/13)
Dear Church Family,
What an interesting week this has been! As information has continued to become available regarding the spread of COVID-19, it has become abundantly clear that churches have a unique responsibility and opportunity to love and serve their neighbors in the midst of uncertain times. While fear and panic are prevalent, we desire to make decisions that are wise and well-informed, while remaining deeply rooted in the peace and trust found in following Jesus Christ.
That being said, we have made several important decisions regarding the life of our church that we would like to update you on. First, due to Governor Holcomb restricting gatherings of groups larger than 250 people, we have made the decision to cancel our physical worship services on Sunday, March 15th. Instead, we will host a livestream worship experience on our YouTube page at 10:30am Sunday morning, something we will share more about very soon. Additionally, all events and gatherings held at the Pierce Campus through March 21st have been cancelled. By following these social distancing protocols, we especially hope to protect the elderly and at-risk among us. Both of these decisions were made in prayer and in-depth conversation about what is best for our church and community. We thank you for your understanding.
With this in mind, the life of Pierce Church is not coming to a halt. Instead, we are praying about how we might be able to imagine and embrace new creative opportunities to grow in and share the love of Jesus Christ. We will share more about this vision for loving and serving our community in our March 15th livestream service, as well as continued communication through various forms. For the latest updates, you can check our social media accounts, watch your email inbox, or visit our website at www.piercechurch.org/updates.
These are interesting and challenging times, but we walk in confidence and faith that God loves and cares for us more than we can imagine. May the peace and hope of Jesus Christ fill your hearts, even in the midst of life’s questions and struggles. We’ll be back in touch very soon.
Pastor Evan
What an interesting week this has been! As information has continued to become available regarding the spread of COVID-19, it has become abundantly clear that churches have a unique responsibility and opportunity to love and serve their neighbors in the midst of uncertain times. While fear and panic are prevalent, we desire to make decisions that are wise and well-informed, while remaining deeply rooted in the peace and trust found in following Jesus Christ.
That being said, we have made several important decisions regarding the life of our church that we would like to update you on. First, due to Governor Holcomb restricting gatherings of groups larger than 250 people, we have made the decision to cancel our physical worship services on Sunday, March 15th. Instead, we will host a livestream worship experience on our YouTube page at 10:30am Sunday morning, something we will share more about very soon. Additionally, all events and gatherings held at the Pierce Campus through March 21st have been cancelled. By following these social distancing protocols, we especially hope to protect the elderly and at-risk among us. Both of these decisions were made in prayer and in-depth conversation about what is best for our church and community. We thank you for your understanding.
With this in mind, the life of Pierce Church is not coming to a halt. Instead, we are praying about how we might be able to imagine and embrace new creative opportunities to grow in and share the love of Jesus Christ. We will share more about this vision for loving and serving our community in our March 15th livestream service, as well as continued communication through various forms. For the latest updates, you can check our social media accounts, watch your email inbox, or visit our website at www.piercechurch.org/updates.
These are interesting and challenging times, but we walk in confidence and faith that God loves and cares for us more than we can imagine. May the peace and hope of Jesus Christ fill your hearts, even in the midst of life’s questions and struggles. We’ll be back in touch very soon.
Pastor Evan