Information Regarding COVID-19
March 12, 2020
Many of you are following updates on the novel coronavirus, or COVID-19. We are also paying attention to how this may affect Florida. If you are wondering how the current situation will affect Summit, we want to make you aware of our current plans based on the available information.
Firstly, we’d love it if you would join us in praying for those directly affected—for the local and global communities impacted by COVID-19. Let’s all be continuously praying for the leadership in our city, country, and world as they work to make decisions in the midst of these circumstances.
All services and upcoming church events will continue as planned unless we are otherwise instructed by local authorities. We will follow guidelines put in place by city and state leadership. In this time of uncertainty, Lead Pastor John Parker also wrote some insight on walking through fear. As we continue to trust that God is at work in the situation, we will keep worshiping and gathering together as God calls his people to be the church in all times.
At each of our campuses, we are focusing on preventative measures to slow the spread of germs in high-traffic environments.
Surfaces are disinfected and floors are mopped multiple times per week.
Though children’s ministry areas, classrooms, and toys are always cleaned after each service, additional measures are being implemented according to the Center for Disease Control guidelines and recommendations.
When we take communion together, the elements will be distributed individually to honor everyone’s health.
For the time being, we will not be passing offering baskets in service. Online giving and text-to-give (SUMMIT to 45888) are available as well as boxes for tithes in the Lobby.
If you are not feeling well or have recently traveled to a high-risk area, we are encouraging you to stay home and utilize online tools to participate in church services to lower the risk of exposure to those more susceptible to the virus.
If we are required to suspend or modify weekend services, audio and video of the service will be available on our website every Sunday morning. Sermon audio is always available on Soundcloud (Herndon Campus, Lake Mary Campus, Waterford Campus) and video from the Thursday service will also be available on our website beginning this weekend (Sunday, March 15th).
As new information arises, we will update you on how this will affect Summit services and events. Stay up-to-date by following us on social media (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter) and making sure you are on our email newsletter list.
If you need pastoral care or counseling, please reach out to us at summit@summitconnect.org. We also know that the current situation has the potential to cause fear and uncertainty in our children as they observe our reactions and conversations. If you’re looking for tips on talking to your children about crisis, you may find this resource helpful.
For now, keep washing your hands and know that all of us in leadership and on staff here are praying for you as we continue to be the church for one another.