We will gather for a Drive-in Service on Easter Sunday
2 John 12 “Though I have much to write to you, I would rather not use paper and ink. Instead, I hope to come to you and talk face to face, so that our joy may be complete.”
This verse rings so true during this time. We have not been able to gather in the same room during these Coronavirus restrictions. The Digital Worship Gatherings have been an encouragement to all, but we longed to be together again. What a joy it will be when we can finally see each other face to face! While the restrictions are still in place, we desire to do something a little different for Easter weekend. We will use a low-wattage FM Transmitter to broadcast our Worship service to car radios. Everyone will be able to hear the broadcast while parked in the church parking lot.
Here are some quick FAQs about how this will work.
When will this take place?
- Good Friday – Friday, April 10 – 6:00 pm
- Easter Morning – Sunday, April 12 – 10:00 am
Where will this take place?
- Central Baptist Church parking lot. At the corner of King St. and Monroe St. in Itasca, TX
Where should I park?
- We will set up to broadcast from the main church building entrance under the bell tower.
- It would be best to park facing the building. The signal is strong enough to reach across Monroe St. in front of the pastor’s house. It can be also heard in the parking lot in the rear of the building, though you will not be able to see.
What station do I tune into?
- We are still testing the best frequency. We will post the station on Facebook a couple of hours before each service. We will also post a sign for you to see in the yard.
- Remember that this FM Transmitter is not as powerful as those you hear on your favorite radio station. The quality will depend on variables like your stereo, your antenna, the weather, etc.
Will I be able to get out and see my church family?
- We are still under the Coronavirus restrictions. Our local, state, and national government leaders are still recommending that we keep a distance of 6 ft. from each other for the safety of everyone.
- We will ask everyone to remain in their vehicles during the services. We do this to honor the wishes of our leaders who ask this of every person, not just churches. And more importantly, we do this in the desire for the safety of all our members and visitors.
What if the weather is bad?
- Due to the Coronavirus restrictions, we are not anticipating getting out of our vehicles. The Worship will be broadcast over an FM frequency. So, you will be able to hear and participate without the weather being much of a hindrance (though, due to the weather the signal may have some static). We will have the Drive-in Gathering, rain or shine.
What will we do during the services?
- Good Friday, we will pray, sing songs of praise, read from the Bible, and listen to a short message of hope from Pastor Matt. This service will last approximately 30-45 minutes.
- Easter Service, we will pray, sing songs of praise, read from the Bible and listen to a sermon from Pastor Matt. We will also share in the Lord’s Supper. This service will last approximately 1 hour.
- A flyer listing the order of worship will be made available on the church website. You will be able to download and print it out. Or you could have it open on a phone or tablet during the service.
How will we be able to take the Lord’s Supper?
- We ask every family to bring their own Lord’s Supper elements to the Easter Worship Gathering. Purchase some grape juice between now and Sunday. You will also need to bring some bread. Traditionally, the church has used unleavened bread. You can purchase bread or make your own. Any unleavened bread will do; crackers, pita bread, tortillas, matzah, etc. If you cannot get or make unleavened bread, feel free to bring any type of bread you have available. You will also need to bring cups for everyone partaking.
- We will have twelve (12) prepared bags for folks who are unable to bring their own supplies. It would include a small bottle of grape juice, a tortilla, and cups for you to use. Though we do suggest bringing your own supplies. We will deliver these supply bags to your vehicle before the Lord’s Supper. If you have any questions, contact Pastor Matt at 254 718 0458
- We will wait for everyone to have their elements and observe the Lord’s Supper at the end of the Worship Gathering.
- Download this sheet and use it to prepare yourself to share in the Lord’s Supper.
Will the bathrooms be available during the services?
- Unfortunately, with the recommended restrictions in place, it will be unsafe for multiple people to be in and out of the building. We will not have the building accessible for bathrooms or any other reasons. We understand that this is an inconvenience, but our desire is to make sure that we do our very best to keep our church members and visitors safe!
What if we cannot make it to the drive-in service?
- We will make an audio recording of the services to be posted on the internet later. You may want to have a time of family worship in your home using the recording of the service as a help and encouragement.
Who is invited to join us?
- Anyone is always welcome to attend one of the gatherings of Central Baptist Church. Feel free to share this with anyone who might have a desire to come. Make sure to pass on the information about the Lord’s Supper and how to get the Order of Worship.