Released: Tuesday, April 21, 2020

Is it time for churches to meet again in Virginia?

On March 15, large gatherings such as church meetings were banned by Governor Ralph Northam to slow the spread of COVID-19. I believe most pastors and congregations have done their part to follow this guideline. These same pastors have done what they can to minister to their people by various means and are asking how much longer these restrictions will stay in place? 

The need for those in our churches to assemble is a critical element of our faith. I pray Governor Northam will soon allow churches to return to regular meetings. Similar guidelines that are being followed by other essential businesses, like grocery stores, can be followed by churches.

Does this mean every church can immediately begin having regular services and activities? No. I am not encouraging any pastor or church to ignore the current executive orders in place. COVID-19 is still circulating, and some are dying as a result. Any church that decides to reopen must do so with great care. Each church is unique and must develop its own plan to best protect its members and visitors. Smaller congregations may be able to resume services more easily than larger congregations. Some areas have higher infection rates than others. To help you understand the factors you should consider, I have included “When should our church begin meeting in our building again?” prepared by the National Center for Life and Liberty (NCLL) prepared by the National Center for Life and Liberty (NCLL). Should you need further information and assistance, contact the NCLL or another legal organization for assistance.

ONE Voice for Liberties Conference – September 24-25, 2020

Plans are moving forward for our annual conference. Register today to join us at Heritage Baptist Church, 7777 Cogbill Rd., in Chesterfield on Thursday and Friday, September 24 and 25. Here is the tentative schedule for the conference:

Sep 24: 7:00 – 9:00 p.m.              

•  Forum: Chad Connelly of Faith Wins
•  Forum: Tim Barton, religious heritage presentation
•  Message: Eddy Aliff, VAIB executive director

Sep 25:

• 9:00 – 9:30 a.m. - VAIB Business Meeting
• 9:30 – 10:20 a.m. - Forum 1: Dan Smithwick of Nehemiah Institute – PEERS Test & Kingdom seminar
• 10:30 – 11:20 a.m. - Forum 2: Max Lyons of FACE – “Liberty & Education: What’s the Connection?”
• 11:30 – 12:30 p.m. - Forum 3: Chad Connelly of Faith Wins ­– “Helping Churches Be Involved”
• Afternoon off for attendees to visit/shop Richmond area
• 7:00 ­– 9:00 p.m.
•     Forum: Tim Barton, religious heritage presentation
•     Message: Moderator Deron Jackson, pastor of Heritage BC, Chesterfield
•     Nightly Music Leader: Mark Houser, Heritage BC, Chesterfield

May God protect you and use you to be a help to others during this time.

Sincerely,

Eddy Aliff

Executive Director