By: Brooks Pipher, pastor of Covenant ARP Church in Burbank, CA
Covenant Church greatly appreciates all who have prayed for us, reached out to us, and shared concern for us. We’re very thankful for you.
Providentially, our church members have been safe from flames. Sadly, some connected to the church through our members and guests have lost homes and lives.
This Sunday was a beautiful Sunday of worship. We had our first baptism in the congregation — a young boy presented by his parents. I thought about postponing the baptism for a later date, but then realized that there was perhaps no better metaphor for the Christian life than our experience this Sunday. Believers are surrounded by danger on every side but have received signs and seals of their belonging to a faithful God.
We have all we need for now. We were very grateful to receive a donation of home air purifiers and KN95 masks from First Presbyterian Church in Columbia. That gift led to a visitor coming and worshiping yesterday. And people have been very, very grateful for the purifiers.
Life has changed in Los Angeles. People have been shaken. Housing and work has disappeared for many overnight. Housing prices and rent prices are set to skyrocket as people seek new places to live. Please pray for us and our city. Please pray for gospel opportunities in the midst of this — I’m very grateful that the church is called “Covenant.”
In the coming weeks, Covenant will continue to seek opportunities to participate in relief and local ministry efforts. I’ll keep you posted should needs or opportunities for ARPs to participate with us arise at that time or before. Thank you!