Jamaica Seventh Day Baptist Conference Incorporated

To the Jamaica Seventh Day Baptist Churches and Groups

March 20, 2020

“If my people which are called by my name shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek

my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then I will hear from heaven, and forgive their

sins and heal their land.”(2 Chronicles 7:14)

Dear Pastor, Missionaries, Evangelists and Brethren,

Guidelines Re-Public Gathering for Services and Other Meetings In light of COVID 19

Peace be multiplied to you from God, our Father and our Saviour and Lord, Jesus Christ. Further to my initial correspondence, you have not been unaware of the new developments in relation to the impact of the existing pandemic named COVID 19 as we have been receiving daily updates on same. However, we are called to be responsive in our drive to maintain connection with all our brethren; employing all means necessary as we encourage the duty of every member to pray and to be diligent in seeking the face of Almighty God at this time.

Our Governor General, Sir Patrick Allen has extended a call on our nation to participate in a day of prayer and solemn fast commencing 6:00 pm on Friday, March 20 to 6:00 pm March 21, 2020 or 6:00 pm Saturday evening to 6:00 pm Sunday evening, March 22, 2020 as we petition God on behalf of our nation and country. Please make the arrangement with your church and or group according to the day of choice. The fast focuses are to pray for the containment and elimination of COVID 19, the healing of those infected, enablement and protection of medical and frontline workers, security forces, the poor, needy, the vulnerable, the Government, Churches, all organization in the fight, combating and economic fallout. It is appropriate for us all to join in this national activity and receive it as an answer to prayers already prayed and an indication that God is at work among us and is about to do something refreshing on and in us.

Going forward, let us be mindful that the maximum number of persons legally permitted to meet in any one place is twenty (20) and the social distancing permitted is 3 - 4 feet apart. Consequently, it is encouraged that Pastors and Leaders will ensure that the members who travel by taxis, others who are sick and those with limiting conditions are grouped in worship cells with assigned leaders who will keep oversight using the social mediaplatforms, chat, live stream, and other creative means of contact. While it is still allowed to have small gatherings as preventative measure, it is encouraged that shifts are arranged to facilitate those who can attend services if turnout is usually large. There may be a unique situation with a church or group where it may be wise to suspend all meetings, but, it is expected that wisdom is applied and we will be guided by the Lord.

Please remember Brethren that we are not given the spirit of bondage to fear but one of love, power and a sound mind, consequently, wisdom must be applied in all we do. Therefore, it is important that we continue to observe all the protocols previously outlined by the Prime Minister and the Ministry of Health in relation to washing/sanitizing hygiene of hands and places and equipment frequently used, to mention a few.

May we experience true revival in this trying time as we make the necessary sacrifice to diligently seek the face of Almighty God for our nation’s healing and full obedience to Almighty God.

Your Servant in His Service,

........................................................

Ronald Blissett

President