A Word from Ernie
May Newsletter
We are in the most interesting times any of us can remember. This virus has affected people and their lifestyles all over the world. It is the kind of thing people will be talking about generations down the road.
While we still haven’t figured out when we can get back to “normal”, or even what “normal” will look like after all of this, I encourage you to remain faithful. Keep finding ways to “fellowship”, “give”, “minister”, and worship. We serve a Great God.
What is next for Haven?
The Shepherds met on May 4 to begin charting our course back to meeting in person. A key theme in that meeting and our approach at Haven is the idea of care: that we care for most vulnerable church members and for our entire community and prioritize church being a safe place both spiritually and physically for all.
Phase One – Worship Only
- For our first phase back we will resume Sunday morning worship. This will not include in-person Sunday School or children’s activities.
- We are looking at June 14 (the first Sunday after the stay-at-home order is removed for the elderly and vulnerable).
- Things are looking positive now, but a spike in cases could impact this date. We are closely monitoring new data.
- The Shepherds, staff, and ministry leaders are working on a comprehensive plan to maximize safety as we reopen.
- We will continue to offer online options for those who can’t join us in person.
Next Phases
- We are currently working on next steps to implement as we continue to add more in-person opportunities and look forward to sharing these plans in the upcoming weeks.
- The Shepherds will be meeting again on May 18 to continue working on these plans and take stock of new data. Going forward they will continue to meet every two-weeks (or more) as they continue to shepherd our church.
During this unprecedented time, Haven has continued to minister to our congregation and community.
The Congregational Care Team has been busy sending cards and checking in by phone calls. While they have not been able to make their regular visits, they are doing a wonderful job keeping up with those who cannot get out. Pastor Ernie has been able to assist some local families who have needed help with rent and utility bills through our benevolence fund.
If you find yourself in need of some support, whether spiritually or physically, please reach out to the church office. We are here to minister to you during this difficult time.

Family Sunday (Online)
Sunday, MAY 31, 10:00 AM
In March we kicked off our plan to offer a family friendly worship service every 5th Sunday. Pastor Ernie and Josh had a blast dancing, smashing eggs on their heads, and co-preaching. On May 31st we are having Family Sunday again and will be trying some completely new things to help families experience worship in a special way. This service isn’t just for kids, but is a full worship service designed for people of all ages to enjoy.

Options to Stay Involved
Worship Online
Join us Sunday at 10:00 AM for an online service with music, prayer, and a practical message. Along with staff leading the service live you will also see different church members reading scripture and praying each week. You can watch and interact on Facebook or watch online here on on website.
Wednesday Drive-In
Join us Wednesday at 6:45 PM for a Drive-In service with prayer & Bible study. This is a fantastic way to see one another from a safe distance and experience in-person community.
Sunday School
We are offering online Sunday school through Zoom available on your computer, smartphone, or call-in for audio. For login information e-mail josh@havenfellowship.org.
Vacation Bible School

VBS Postponed
Early this year, plans were being made for a wonderful VBS scheduled for June 7-11. The coronavirus, however, has put our plans on hold. Our VBS will not take place in June as originally planned.
If we are able to have Vacation Bible School, it will be held on July 19-23. We will make a decision on June 1 as to whether or not this will be possible. We want to make a wise decision and do what is best for our children and our workers. If it is necessary to cancel VBS for 2020, we will have a terrific Vacation Bible School in 2021, “Rocky Railway—Jesus’ Power Pulls Us Through!”