At FWOC we trust in God's Word which says no "plague" (or infectious sickness/disease) will come near our dwelling (Psalm 91:10). Exodus 23:25 tells us that God will bless our bread and water and take sickness from the midst of us. It's vital that we FEAR NOT like the Lord told us in so many places throughout scripture. Faith is a shield which protects us (Ephesians 6:16), while fear is a magnet that will draw to us what's dreaded (Job 3:25). 

While we've come to love, embrace, and grow in the truth about faith, we also understand that there are many people who haven't been taught these wonderful truths or have only developed to a certain point in their faith. As well, we believe in honoring and complying with those in authority as long as what they ask from us doesn't violate the Word of God.  Both Governor Mike DeWine and Department of Health Director Amy Acton in a recent statewide press conference issued a "Stay at Home Order."   

The order can be found by clicking at the link below or by going to the Ohio website at www.coronavirus.ohio.gov. There are exemptions to this order that are defined as "essential businesses."  On Page 5 (under letter e) "religious entities" are listed as one of the essential businesses that people are permitted to go to.   The governor recommends that churches continue to practice social distancing with proper sterilization, which we at FWOC have implemented.  Contrary to what some may have said, churches are NOT required to be shut down or only have online services.  FWOC has been legally assembling together according to the Governor's definition of "essential business," and also according to the First Amendment of the US Constitution. 

The congregation of FWOC wouldn't be considered a large gathering.  Because of our current smaller numbers FWOC will continue having its Sunday morning service at 11:00 AM and Tuesday night Prayer School at 6:30 PM.  We won't, however, have children's services or Sunday morning Ministry Groups until further notice.  During the services, at the request of the authorities, we are practicing social distancing.  We also encourage people to stay home if they are sick.  

Some of the things that FWOC has implemented include:

-Practicing social distancing by eliminating hand shaking/hugging during services.

-Changes how we serve the communion elements.

-Sanitizing several areas in the church before and after service.

-Bulletins or other forms are made available for self pick up.

-All children and student ministries' activities are postponed until further notice. 

-All Sunday morning Ministry Groups are postponed until further notice.

According to what we see in scripture, perceive in our hearts, and what's been confirmed by trusted men of God, this challenge we're facing won't last as long as some have forecast. We believe 2020 is truly our year of receiving God's double portion. We encourage you during this time to keep rejoicing in God's Word knowing that we're coming out. Great things are ahead for us as we continue to walk by faith and choose not to fear!

Link to Ohio Order and Essential Business definition:  https://coronavirus.ohio.gov/static/DirectorsOrderStayAtHome.pdf