What an upside down, inside out, totally out of control world we live in today. Who would have ever thought the United States would struggle between Constitutional and common sense? Who could have predicted that elected officials would deny some the opportunity to attend church? In Indiana, the Governor has stated “do church my way or I will close you down.” In Kentucky and Maine, Pastors were told if you have church you will be arrested and fined. In Mississippi a church was holding outside service, with social distancing and people remaining in their own vehicles and were arrested and fined. (Yes, those were rescinded, but the idea it was done is criminal.)

I am thankful that neither the President nor the Governor of Florida closed churches. Instead, as Pastor of Indian River Baptist Church, I made the common sense call to suspend our services. Because of both the uncertainty and the number of our congregation that are part of the high risk category, the call was made out of caution. However, after prayer, thought, and investigation I believe it is time to begin the first steps towards complying with the command of Scripture to assemble.

Therefore, this Sunday morning, May 17, we will open the doors of the church for singing, preaching, and fellowship for our traditional 11:00 am service.

We livestream all our videos on our facebook page. However it does not require you to have a facebook account to watch. If you scroll down to the bottom of this page you will see the blue facebook logo (just the blue F) and click on it, you will then be directed to our church facebook page. On this page you will be able to watch all videos and livestream services.

Giving while not attending our physical service.

Please continue to give your tithes and offerings one of three ways. 1. Scroll down to the Donate Button to give directly through PayPal.

2. Mail in your offering to the church address at; 1708 S. Ridgewood Ave. Edgewater Florida, 32132.

3. Give Pastor a call and let him know you would like to drop your offering off at the church.

1. At this time we will only be holding Sunday Morning services open to the public. If things go well, we will be adding Sunday School, Wednesday Night, and Sunday Night beginning in June. Stay tuned for details and the plan of rolling into those services.

2. There will be a temperature check.

3. Everyone will need a mask. We do have a limited supply at the door.

4. The seating will be set in a manner to promote a safe distance as prescribed by the CDC.

5. There will be a sanitizing station located near the restrooms and at the back of the auditorium. 6. There will be no handshaking or hugs.

7. The services at this time will continue to be broadcast through our Facebook page.

8. The offering plates will not be passed through the crowd but will be stationed for you to place your gifts in the plate with no contact.

9. During this time, the use of hymn books will be discouraged. The words will be prominently displayed on the video screen.

10. If you are sick or feel uncomfortable with these guidelines, please do not attend. I fully understand those that may have apprehensions and concerns. We love you and look forward to the day we will worship and fellowship as a family again. Should you have any concerns or questions, please contact me.