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Pastor’s Update:

FPC Responds to COVID-19 

 
Be not afraid, my sisters and brothers. Fear, not the coronavirus, is our enemy. The Lord reigns! Let us rejoice, give thanks and live for him.  Pastor Stuart Spencer
 
 
 
 

NJ Residents can now register for the COVID-19 vaccine. We have a few tips to help.

NJ residents over 65 can get the vaccine, along with those under various medical conditions, smokers, first responders, teachers and many others. It’s a simple process.
To register, go to:    COVIDVACCINE.NJ.GOV
 
For more information regarding the vaccine, visit the State’s COVID-19 Vaccine page: COVID19.NJ.GOV/PAGES/VACCINE   Encourage others to register, too!

NJ Residents can register directly for the COVID Vaccine at the following sites:

 
Moorestown Mall Mega Site:
VIRTUA.ORG/VACCINE
 
Camden County College Site:  CAMDENCOUNTY.COM/VACCINEREGISTRATION
(this site has mobile phone option but you must download the app My Chart)
 
Shop Rite – Medford
VACCINES.SHOPRITE.COM
 
Rowan University Site:
ROWANMEDICINE.COM/VACCINE
 
To call by phone:
NJ Hotline – 855.568.0545 (available 8 am – 8 pm)
 
 

Helpful hints:

  • Have your insurance card ready when you get a time slot
  • Have your social security number ready
  • You only have 10 minutes to input the information or you have to begin again.
 

Should individuals need assistance registering, they can contact:

Chris Catanella
cell 941.773.3001
christine.catanella@gmail.com
 
Ginny Weber
Home: 856.235.5652 or cell 856.266.2778
swimlaxbal@aol.com
 
 
 
Prior to attending an approved Worship Service, meeting, small group, rehearsal or any gathering on the church campus we are asking each of our members and visitors to complete ONE waiver form and ONE health screening questionnaire for EACH member or visitor. You may find online and printable forms here…
 
 
 
 

COVID-19 MESSAGE FOR YOU

Through prayer and careful action we all have been putting our collective safety first, yet now we find ourselves in a continuing time of caution as this pandemic seems to be taking hold again in our country.
 
We have a general rule at FPC Moorestown to share with you to guide our actions as we interact with each other during worship service, Sunday school or on campus meetings — any symptom during a pandemic that is part of the litany of symptoms is COVID-19 until proven otherwise. What this means is that we have to be responsible for ourselves. If you aren’t feeling well, feel out of it, have the sniffles, be cautious. What used to be “just a common deal with it” situation is now required to be taken seriously as it could literally mean life or death for us, our family or friends. If you have any doubt, STAY HOME. Yes, we have taken as many precautions as possible, but one casual encounter can really set us back. Now is not the time to be complacent, or to feel that we have this under control. It is not under control. The good news is that soon we will have a vaccine that will protect us all. We just have to be patient and do the right thing a little while longer.
 
Don’t be concerned for your own good but for the good of others. 1 Corinthians 10:24

Current Approved Guidelines:

1. Our buildings are currently closed to all inside meetings.
2. With Session approval, groups may meet on the grounds of our church, with no more than 500 people in attendance. 
3. We ask that anyone who comes to a church event wear a mask while on our property, including outdoors, and practice physical and social distancing (a minimum of six feet apart).
4. Meals are not allowed to be served.
5. Bathrooms are not available.
6. Those who attend meetings must complete a registration form, a health guide and should check in upon arrival.
7. Meeting should last around an hour and no longer than 90 minutes.
8. Those who exhibit any COVID symptoms—like a fever or a cough—shouldn’t attend the event.
 
Pastor Update, Coronavirus Letter 16

One Year Later – We’ve Come a Long Way

March 12, 2021
 
Dear Member and Friends of FPC Moorestown,
 
The world changed almost a year ago exactly. Do you remember where you were? I recall how quickly everything shut down in the middle of March of 2020. Since then, we’ve all had to adjust to new ways of working, going to school, shopping, and attending worship. The loss of life and the drastic negative economic impact of COVID -19 will continue to ripple among our community and the world for some time to come. While we continue to mourn the loss of human life and milestones we can’t get back, we also continue to be people who are rooted in the love and hope of the Lord Jesus. As Romans 8: 38 and 39 reminds us, nothing in all creation, not even COVID-19, can separate us from God’s love and purposes for our lives, for First Presbyterian Church, or the wider world.
 
While there are many encouraging signs that we’re headed out of the pandemic, we’re not there yet. In planning our Holy Week services, we’ve continued to prioritize the safety of our members, visitors and staff. As you review the 2021 Holy Week worship schedule, you’ll notice that there’s a mixture of in-person and live stream only. However, every service, except the Easter sunrise service, will be available through live stream.
 
Sunday, March 28th – Palm Sunday (in-person attendance and live stream)
  • 8:30 AM Contemporary Worship in Miller Commons
  • 11:00 AM Traditional Worship in the Sanctuary
 
Thursday, April 1st – Maundy Thursday (live stream only)
  • 7:00 PM Live stream Worship in Miller Commons (includes communion)
Beth Douglass (seminary intern) preaches
 
Friday, April 2nd – Good Friday (in-person attendance; overflow seating available)
  • 7:00 PM Tenebrae Worship in the Sanctuary
Frantz Constant (seminary intern) preaches
 
Sunday, April 4th – Easter Sunday (THREE services total)
  • 6:30 AM Sunrise Worship at the Cemetery Cross (includes communion).
In-person attendance is welcome. No live stream.
  • 8:30 AM Contemporary Worship in Miller Commons. Live stream only.
  • 11:00 AM Traditional Worship in the Sanctuary. Live stream only. (over)
 
Reflecting on all that’s happened at First Presbyterian Church within the last year, it’s not hard to see God at work in our lives. As difficult and discouraging as the disruptions of the pandemic are for us, I clearly see how the Spirit of God opens doors of opportunity for mission and ministry. In a recent Inquirer’s Class, three or four couples “found” us through our online worship. Though none have yet set foot on our campus, they were drawn to consider becoming members of FPC Moorestown through our expanded online presence.
 
We strive to keep in step with the Spirit for all the good that awaits us. There are two searches underway for a Youth Director and an Associate Pastor. Let’s regularly pray for these committees and their work.
 
As we prepare to welcome two new staff members, we’re saying good-bye and thank you to Kelly LePenske. Kelly and Joey Sponseller will be married in Santa Barbara, CA on May 15th. Leslie and I will be there to celebrate with Kelly and Joey as I have the privilege of uniting them in marriage. You’re invited to a drive-in Wedding Shower for Kelly and Joey on Sunday, April 11 from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. The invitation for this happy event is included. Kelly’s final day with us is Sunday, May 2nd.
 
Thank you for the numerous ways you’ve supported FPC Moorestown. Don’t let up on your generosity! Easter offerings may be mailed to the church, dropped off at worship or submitted through electronic giving. Please make sure to note “Easter Offering” in the memo line.
We serve Jesus, our risen Savior. The women who found his tomb empty on Easter morning, turned from it to carry the news of his resurrection to a dark and anxious world.
 
Gratefully yours in Christ,
Stuart Spencer, Pastor
 
 

Resources

 

Useful links:

Giving in this Era of COVID-19
Although we won’t be together for a time due to the highly contagious COVID-19, please continue to support FPC Moorestown financially. Like many others, we still have ongoing expenses and mission commitments, and deeply desire to support families who are stretched especially thin right now.
The CDC recommends that you wear masks in public settings around people who don’t live in your household and when you can’t stay 6 feet away from others. Masks help stop the spread of COVID-19 to others.
  • Wear masks with two or more layers to stop the spread of COVID-19
  • Wear the mask over your nose and mouth and secure it under your chin
  • Masks should be worn by people two years and older
  • Masks should NOT be worn by children younger than two, people who have trouble breathing, or people who cannot remove the mask without assistance
  • Do NOT wear masks intended for healthcare workers, for example, N95 respirators
  • CDC does not recommend the use of gaiters or face shields. Evaluation of these face covers is on-going but effectiveness is unknown at this time.
 

Pastor Spencer has shared uplifting and heartfelt messages with us over the term of this pandemic.

 
Pastor Update, Coronavirus Letter 14
Christmas Eve schedule offers meaningful, safe worship opportunities
December 18, 2020
 
Dear Members and Friends of FPC Moorestown,
Planning for Christmas Eve in the middle of a pandemic, like nearly everything else we’ve faced this year, isn’t easy. Consider that Christmas Eve is the night when everyone goes to church. Not this year. Most churches are planning for pre-recorded or live stream services with no in-person participants.
 
Pastor Update, Coronavirus Letter 15
Your Invitation to Our Annual Meeting
January 31, 2021
 
Dear Members and Friends of FPC Moorestown,
Sunday, February 7th is the day for our family business. The first Sunday in February is the day for our Annual Meeting. This year, we’ll do our business differently than before, but it’s crucial that you plan to join us. Our Annual Meeting is scheduled to begin at 11:00 a.m. that day via Zoom webinar.
Pastor Update, Coronavirus Letter 13
Our faith has been on display in a year that has tested us like none other.
December 2, 2020
 
Dear Members and Friends of FPC Moorestown,
As we come to the end of 2020, a year that is testing us like none other, let me remind you that following Jesus as a disciple requires making choices for Him.  READ MORE…
Pastor Update, Coronavirus Letter 12
It will be a wonderfully powerful moment when we’re gathered together. Safely.
October 30, 2020
 
Dear Members and Friends of FPC Moorestown,
Someone at some time taught you how to go to church. Most likely, your parents were the ones who showed you the ropes READ MORE…
 
Pastor Update, Coronavirus Letter 11
Session Approves Indoor Worship to Begin November 1; Limited Indoor Gatherings
October 16, 2020  
 
Dear Members and Friends of FPC Moorestown,

“When they said, ‘Let’s go to the house of God,’ my heart leaped for joy. And now we’re here …” (Psalm 122: 1)

As of last Sunday, it’s been 34 weeks since we’ve gathered indoors for worship. That’s well over a half a year. For some of us, it’s felt like forever.   READ MORE…

 

Pastor Update, Coronavirus Letter 10
Joan Van Camp Porch
October 4, 2020
 
Dear Members and Friends of FPC Moorestown,
I’m delighted to share with you the opening of the Joan Van Camp Porch. Joan, a long time faithful member of our church, left a generous gift to the church last year.
Pastor Update
Fall Kickoff and Ministry Fair
September 11, 2020
 
Dear Members and Friends of FPC Moorestown,
Once a group of maintenance workers at a state park had grown upset with the park management. Management was dissatisfied with how the workers were cleaning the camp sites after campers left for home.
Pastor Update
Session Approves Recommendation for Outdoor Worship Gathering
July 31, 2020

 

Dear Members and Friends of FPC Moorestown,

For months, I’ve carried a vision in my mind of a time when we can return to our sanctuary and Miller Commons to worship God together.  READ MORE…

Pastor Update

“We’ll leave the light on for you … “
July 3, 2020

Dear Members or Friends of FPC Moorestown,
You may remember the old ad from Motel 6: We’ll leave the light on for you. A light left on is a silent sign of welcome and care — at a hotel, home, or a church. A light on means that you’re in someone’s mind and heart. READ MORE…
Pastor Update
May 29, 2020
 
Dear Beloved Members and Friends of FPC Moorestown,
It feels like forever since I last saw you in person. I carry you in my heart and I lift you before the Lord in prayer.   READ MORE…
Pastor Update
May 8, 2020
 
Dear Members and Friends of FPC Moorestown,
“Since you excel in so many ways—in your faith, your gifted speakers, your knowledge, your enthusiasm, and your love from us—I want you to excel also in this gracious act of giving.” (2 Corinthians 8: 7)   READ MORE…
Pastor Update
Friday, April 24, 2020
“And now the word of the Lord is ringing out …”
 
Dear Members and Friends of FPC Moorestown:
A blessed and joyous Easter to you! If you’ve forgotten that we’re still in the season of Easter, then allow me to remind you. In reflecting on this season, author Joan Chittister writes,
Pastor Update
Thursday, April 2, 2020
 
Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,  As we prepare for a Holy Week unlike any other we’ve experienced, I want to share a wonderful observation from The Rev. Dr. Emily C. Heath. She noted, “The first Easter didn’t happen at a church. It happened outside an empty tomb, while all the disciples were sequestered at home, grief-stricken and wondering what was going on. So, we’re going to be keeping things pretty Biblical this Easter.”  READ MORE…
Pastor Update
Wednesday, April 1, 2020
91 x 91: Praying Psalm 91 for 91 days
 
As one of our partners, and in light of the COVID-19 pandemic that is hitting all of us, and may wreak havoc in the urban poor communities where we serve[1], we would love to invite you and those in the Moorestown Presbyterian Church Community that you think would be interested, to join us in a prayer campaign that we´ve named “91×91”.  READ MORE…
Pastor Update
Wednesday, March 18, 2020
 
Friends,
As so many of the letters written to the early church begin, “Grace and peace to you from the Lord Jesus Christ!” Now that life has shifted so suddenly and with such uncertainty, we’re seeking the Lord as we haven’t sought him before. I’m grateful for the opportunity to trust God more deeply, serve God more energetically and live for God with greater love and joy.  READ MORE..
Pastor Update
Friday, March 13, 2020
 

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
As you know, the coronavirus (COVID-19) is a highly contagious flu-like virus that is spreading rapidly throughout the world and the United States. While the risk of becoming seriously ill or dying from the virus is very low, for some people — especially the elderly and those who are already fragile — it is potentially deadly. READ MORE…

Messages from members of the FPC Moorestown Staff during this difficult time.