Ocala First Connection
Weekly Update
March 26, 2020
SUSPENSION OF IN-PERSON MINISTRIES
EXTENDED TO APRIL 15

Our Executive Committee has decided to extend the suspension of our in-person ministries until April 15. This extension comes in response to the request by Bishop Ken Carter of all United Methodist churches in the Florida Conference.

Our staff and volunteer teams will begin making preparations for us to experience a meaningful Holy Week and a joyous Easter Sunday online. We will also be sharing ways to celebrate Holy Communion together through video conferencing (Zoom).

When we are allowed to gather in-person again for worship, we will celebrate a "New Life Sunday" that will capture the spirit of Easter and include a church-wide brunch or picnic. We look forward to that great day, whenever it is to come!

In the meantime, see below to discover all the many ways you can get connected to your church online. As we prepare for this extended time away from one another, we will continue to think of creative ways to use technology to stay Christ-Centered, Connected Together, and to have a Community Impact.


Pastors Anne & David Fuquay

GET CONNECTED! STAY CONNECTED!

See below for ways you can get connected through:
  • Facebook
  • Livestream Worship
  • Zoom Video Conferencing
  • Being a "Corona-Buddy"
  • Family Ministry Online Resources
FIND US ONLINE

The best way to stay connected is through our Facebook page and our "Members and Friends" Facebook group. On our page you can find our livestream feeds and important announcements. And in our group, we share all that information plus special videos from our music staff to bless your day with music, and other helpful resources.
  • Watch for "The Daily Dave" with Pastor David everyday on Facebook Live. He will be providing updates and information, sharing encouragement and inspiration, and welcoming some special guests.

  • We will mail a letter each week to all those in our congregation who may not be online so everyone stays connected and informed.
Get ZOOM Video Conferencing!

As we learn how to be the church beyond our walls we are finding ways to stay connected and in community. Video conferencing is wonderful way to meet together when practicing social distancing. We are now having all our staff meetings and church committee meetings online through Zoom.

Beginning in April, Pastors Anne and David will begin to host Holy Communion services through Zoom. We can assist you in getting a small group or Sunday School class connected through Zoom. And we will find even more creative uses for the technology over the next few weeks.

Got to https://zoom.us/ to learn more, or search for the Zoom app for your smart phone or tablet.
INTRODUCING CORONA-BUDDIES

Our Family Ministries Team wants to make connections and develop life-giving inter-generational friendships between our families and the older members of our congregation.  Would you consider being a Corona Buddy? You would check-in with each other a few times a week, pray for each other, and be there for one another in whatever ways are most helpful. Even if you have plenty of family support, these friendships build up our church and bring some joy into our community.

If you would like to be a Corona-Buddy, or if you know someone in our congregation who would benefit from having a Corona-Buddy to offer some connection, contact:

or call the church office (352-622-3244)
KIDS AND FAMILIES - STAY CONNECTED!
Our Family Ministries Team is awesome!
FINANCIAL GIVING

The church does not close when we cannot gather in person. We are still the church in our mission and ministry to one another and the community. Our staff are still hard at work providing worship, music, and programs for all ages. Our office is still open and our custodial staff are keeping up the buildings and tackling some long overdue projects. 
 
We encourage you to continue supporting Ocala First United Methodist Church financially during this crisis to support our staff and ongoing expenses. Please be as generous as you can, as many may find themselves in a place where they cannot give at all. If you are able to pay ahead on your pledge or make an extra gift, we would be so appreciative. We are grateful for you!
 

Gifts can be mailed to or dropped off at the church office.
(1126 E. Silver Springs Blvd, Ocala, FL, 34470)

You can also give online at any time!
PASTORAL CARE

If you need prayer or need to speak with our pastors or a member of our Care Team, please call the church office.

In-Person visitation is suspended for most care facilities, and we are all trying to practice social distancing to protect those most at risk from serious illness from Covid-19.

We will keep our prayer list updated. Our Pastors and Care Team will reach out with phone calls and notes.

We will provide in-person visits in an emergency.

All members are encouraged to check-in with one another regularly, particularly with those older members who are not online and may feel more isolated during this time.
LOOKING AHEAD

Given how rapidly things can change during a pandemic, our leadership and staff will continue to closely monitor the situation and adapt our plans as needed. We will keep you informed each step of the way.

Updates on our website:

Updates from the Florida Conference Website:

Visit our webpage for updates, sermon videos and more!
[352.622.3244]  [[email protected]]  [www.fumcocala.org]