-18th March 2020-

Dear Somerset West Baptist Church Family,

Brothers and sisters in Christ.  

As you are aware, the address by the President of South Africa to the nation regarding the necessary precautions regarding the coronavirus (COVID-19) need to be addressed and seen in a very severe light. The leadership of the church agrees with the sentiment to be cautious in an attempt to curb the spread of this virus. As a church we do not want to contribute to the propagation of the virus.

The Executive of the church, comprising the Church Elders, Pastors and Deacons met last night (Tuesday) and have decided that we should minimise with immediate effect all gatherings that take place on the church premises. This will be a temporary measure until we hear further from various government sources or church bodies.

The Elders shall meet again on the 7th April 2020 to evaluate and reconsider the wisest way forward.

In doing this, we do not intend to spread any fear nor lack of faith in God, but realise that we have a responsibility to obey the emergency law put into place as well as to guide our congregation in trusting God that he will work all things according to his Good. (Rom 8:28).

We all bear the responsibility for each other’s well-being not only spiritually but in body as well.

Paul writes “For God has not given is a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind” (2 Timothy 1:7).

With this in mind, we will endeavour to remain in contact online for worship and prayer during this time through our various online platforms. Sermons will be available to watch or listen to via https://swbc.online.church 

Youth Ministry- https://swbc.co.za/youth-ministry

Children’s Ministry https://swbc.co.za/kids-ministry

We have thus decided the following:

1. Sunday Services. Sunday services have been cancelled until further notice. Please refer to the website https://swbc.co.za   or Facebook https://www.facebook.com/SomersetWestBaptistChurch for sermons and information.

2. Meetings and Church events. We intend to limit unnecessary contact during the week and so all non-essential meetings, groups, outside groups and those hiring the facilities will need to suspend their gatherings until further notice.

3. Access to the office or church building.  Please do not visit the church building or office without prior arrangement or appointment. There will be pastors available that you can speak to on the phone instead of coming in.

This virus spreads easily through direct human contact or from spores left on door handles, various surfaces and objects, pews, bulletins etc, is highly contagious and moves amongst people within close proximity of each other. 

We would ask all our church family to maintain social distancing, avoid unnecessary gatherings and to wash your hands regularly with water and soap or disinfectant.

Let us continue to be faithful in worshiping God during this time. Let us be faithful in our giving, let us use the time to pray together as families, to watch the sermons online and to be responsible in our action towards one another.

Please share this message with our brothers and sisters in the Lord, especially those you know who do not have internet access. 

Gods grace and love towards you through Jesus Christ our Lord.

The Pastors, Elders and Deacons of Somerset West Baptist Church.   

Tel: 021 8521810.