5 minute read
SPBC Bulletin Stories
from Bulletin 090521
by SPBC
ST. PAUL’S BAPTIST CHURCH RELAUNCH TEAM
MISSION: Protect the safety and welfare of the St. Paul’s family and members of the community against the resurgence of Covid 19.
Dear St. Paulians,
While we planned with joyful anticipation and looked forward to joining together to praise God face to face for Sunday service in the sanctuary, we also must be mindful of the ongoing changes related to COVID. The Relaunch Task Force has been diligent in keeping a prayerful focus on current data both nationally and in our immediate area. Unfortunately, the trends are very troubling and continuing to rise with increasing infections, hospitalizations, and deaths. It is with that in mind the Task Force has recommended we pause our return for the planned reopening date of September 12th. It is with a sense of disappointment and thoughtful prayer that I share with you my concurrence and support of their recommendation. It is important that we maintain our focus of doing all we can in planning the safe return for all worshipers. This pause, while not what any of us want, is a necessary part of focusing on the safety of all that enter St. Paul’s doors. We will remain in Phase I and continue to support the small meetings taking place in the Fellowship Hall. The protocols aligned to the meetings have been working well and will remain in place. • A meeting request form for a ministry meeting must be completed and signed by the Servant Leader to schedule a meeting on the church calendar. • One to two meetings per day consisting of no more than 50 people will be permitted to allow for sanitizing. • Masks are to be always worn. • Members are to adhere to the posted COVID screening guidelines. • The rear door located in the back of the Fellowship Hall will be the only entry and exit points to the building. • The only restrooms for public use are located next to the elevator lobby. • No food or beverages are allowed. Join me in praying that the current trends decline quickly and those that are able become vaccinated. The Relaunch Task Force will continue its attentive work and look forward to making a recommendation regarding a future return date to St. Paul’s. Please continue to join church service via the blessing of technology. Please also continue to give. If ever your church needs you, it is now. So, I ask that you remain faithful in your worship and giving. Finally, continue to connect as you have been doing, with your church members, family, and friends. We need one another as we navigate through these unprecedented times. With Limitless Possibilities, Pastor Croft
The COVID-19 pandemic has brought overwhelming grief to many families. At FEMA, our mission is to help people before, during and after disasters. We are dedicated to helping ease some of the financial stress and burden caused by the virus.
Under the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2021 and the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, FEMA will provide financial assistance for COVID-19-related funeral expenses incurred after January 20, 2020.
We are working with stakeholder groups to get their input on ways we can best provide this assistance, and to enlist their help with outreach to families and communities. FEMA will begin to implement COVID-19 funeral assistance in April.
Additional guidance is being finalized and will be released to potential applicants and community partners as soon as possible. In the meantime, people who have COVID-19 funeral expenses are encouraged to keep and gather documentation.
FEMA will begin accepting applications for Funeral Assistance on Monday, April 12, 2021 through the dedicated call center.
Who is Eligible?
To be eligible for funeral assistance, you must meet these conditions: The death must have occurred in the United States, including the U.S. territories, and the District of Columbia. The death certificate must indicate the death was attributed to COVID-19. The applicant must be a U.S. citizen, non-citizen national, or qualified alien who incurred funeral expenses after January 20, 2020. There is no requirement for the deceased person to have been a U.S. citizen, non-citizen national, or qualified alien.
How to Apply
COVID-19 Funeral Assistance Line Number Applications begin on April 12, 2021 844-684-6333| TTY:800-462-7585 Hours of Operation: Monday -Friday 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Central Time
If you had COVID-19 funeral expenses, we encourage you to keep and gather documentation. Types of information should include: An official death certificate that attributes the death directly or indirectly to COVID-19 and shows that the death occurred in the United States, including the U.S. territories, and the District of Columbia. Funeral expenses documents (receipts, funeral home contract, etc.) that includes the applicant’s name, the deceased person’s name, the amount of funeral expenses, and the dates the funeral expenses happened. Proof of funds received from other sources specifically for use toward funeral costs. We are not able to duplicate benefits received from burial or funeral insurance, financial assistance received from voluntary agencies, government agencies, or other sources.
How Funds are Received
If you are eligible for funeral assistance you will receive a check by mail, or funds by direct deposit, depending on which option you choose when you apply for assistance.
Church School Corner
DAILY BIBLE READINGS
Moses and Miriam Praise God
EXODUS 14:1–15:1–21 Devotional Reading PSALM 105:1–2, 37–45
2 Timothy 2:15 (NKJV)
