Elder Blog May 2020

 In January, we released our first Rock Church Elder blog. Our goal is to communicate to the body and inform you of the important decisions that are being discussed, prayed about, and eventually made.  

Since January, we have had several meetings together discussing things like Easter services, staff health and needs, financial accountability, and township approval processes for the Box Initiative. As always, you are welcome to reach out with any questions regarding these topics in more detail. 

Discussion Topics:

In March, the Covid-19 pandemic forced us to redirect our discussions and our efforts toward maintaining ministry during this bizarre season. Our goal was to continue proclaiming the gospel through any means necessary, with respect to the governing authorities as well as the physical well-being of people. 

Easter Sunday- The original plan of gathering under a tent at Lasco Ford was canceled. Although there was disappointment that our initial plans were not going to happen, God opened different avenues that we would have never foreseen. We were able to run our Easter Service as well as a 9-week Ten Nine outreach through local television stations, broadcasting to a multitude of homes in Michigan. We have had a great amount of responses to the messages and have had several people within the Rock reach out personally to them. 

Weekly ministries- Each of our weekly ministries quickly adapted to the online world. Several members of the Rock staff worked tireless hours to make sure messages were recorded, uploaded and dispersed. Through this unexpected door, we were able to maintain the current groups centered around Biblical teaching, as well as allow more potential viewers to see and share the content. 

The Box- The initial goal of $3,000,000 has officially been raised and construction of the new building is officially under way. We are grateful for God’s faithfulness and your generous giving as we begin to see physical progress each week on the property. 

Watch Parties- While we continue to wait for the day when we can all gather together again for a weekend service, we are now able to meet in groups of 10 or less. We are currently opening up homes in several local towns that will host watch parties surrounding the Saturday and Sunday weekly stream. The goal is to worship together and continue discussion around the preaching and teaching of the Word. While this may not be ideal for most people, it is certainly a testament to the church being the church. (Acts 2:46) 

We have many things to celebrate, church! The gospel will still be proclaimed no matter what our external circumstances are. Let’s continue on with the mission!  (Luke 10:2) 

On behalf of the Elder Team,

Scott Johnson