During the reign of Charles I in the 17th century a power struggle took place between the King and the Church. Charles I was committed to “prelacy,” the rule of the earthly king over the church. Many pastors and churches of the day rejected this idea- and rightly so- instead affirming that Jesus was the Head and King of His Church. Charles prescribed a number of changes in worship even down to the liturgy to be used. Scottish pastors and leaders, many with their own blood, signed what was known as the Scottish National Covenant in 1639. They became known as the “Covenanters” whose motto was “For Christ’s Crown and Covenant.” Many were expelled from their churches at the point of a sword and many even died for their commitment to Christ and His Kingship.
Being forced out of church buildings, worship gatherings began to take place outside and were called “field meetings” or “conventicles.” I thought of those gatherings this past Sunday as we met outside here at HLPC. It’s part of our spiritual heritage! No, we are not facing anything close to the persecution those Covenanters faced, but we are gathering outside and we will again this week, weather permitting, at 10AM. Here are some reminders:
- Please bring your own chairs.
- Please maintain social distancing. Feel free to wear a mask if you desire.
- There will be no nursery or School of Discipleship, only worship at 10AM.
- We are keeping the church building closed but will allow bathroom use in an emergency. Children must be accompanied by a parent.
- You will be able to stay in your car and listen to the service on FM radio.
- If you are in one of the high risk categories due to age or other conditions, please stay home and watch the livestreaming of the service at www.houstonlakepres.org. Also, if you are not feeling well, please stay home!
Lord willing, we will continue to meet outside for the rest of the month of May, weather permitting. This week’s forecast will be warmer than last so please dress appropriately- casually and comfortably. Thank you for praying for last week’s service. Please pray for this Sunday and the other outdoor services we will be attempting.
A last bit of news for you is that our sanctuary floor is being refinished after 10 years of use in this facility. If there is a silver lining to having no worship indoors is that we are able to have this done.
Your Pastor,
Paul