A Message from Pastor Joe Concerning the Coronavirus

March 18, 2020

Dear Cowboy Church,

I thought it important to write you today to discuss some things which are heavy on my heart, each one related to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

First, I fervently pray daily that you will remain encouraged in the Lord during these uncertain times. As a church, let us individually and corporately embrace the promise of Isaiah 26:3—“You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.”

Second, on a practical level, I trust you are practicing social distancing and common sense hygiene as recommended by our government and healthcare leaders. Together, with our fellow citizens, we must fight to slow the spread of this highly contagious virus. “Love your neighbor as yourself” (Mark 12:31, NIV). Furthermore, as Christ followers experiencing various degrees of hardship, may God’s Spirit, which indwells each of us, shine God’s peace and love on those without hope, who are despairing in fear. “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16, NIV).

Third, until the Coronavirus subsides—and eventually it will—Linda and I, along with our leadership team, will closely monitor the Federal and State guidelines for group interaction, and make decisions concerning our Sunday service and weekly ministries accordingly. “Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God” (Romans 13:1, ESV).

Going forward, we will diligently communicate future decisions about our Sunday service and ministries every Thursday on our website, weekly e-newsletter, and Facebook posts.

Fourth, I would be remiss not to address the financial health of our church during this unprecedented season. Unlike larger churches located in affluent neighborhoods, we exist on a week-to-week basis—fully dependent on the faithful stewardship of people like you. “Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it” (Malachi 3:10, NIV).

Unfortunately, this week we will need to supplement last week’s offering with funds from our limited savings in order to meet bills and other obligations. Should this trend continue, we will necessarily need to consider downsizing our ministries and staff. Obviously, none of us wants this to happen. Which is why your faithful weekly giving is so crucially important.

In light of our Sunday service not being held in our Service area this Sunday, I wish to remind you of the alternative ways in which you can donate your weekly tithes and offerings:

  1. Website (go to www.cowboychurch.org and click the “Donate” button at the top of the home page)
  2. Mail (17525 Highway 65 NE, Ham Lake, MN 55304)
  3. Phone (Call the church office at 763-434-5596 and give by credit card)
  4. Mailbox (We have a locked, outdoor mailbox located to the left of our side door. Insert donation through slot.)

In closing, remember to keep your trust and faith in the Lord. He is still Lord, He is on the throne, and He remains in control. “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6-7, NIV).

In His Grace,


Pastor Joe
Cowboy Church