First Liberty
[link removed]
COVID-19 Crisis:
How the First Liberty Family is Coming Together During This Critical
Time of Need
Dear John,
This morning, I wanted to reach out to you as a special First Liberty
supporter to share what's on my heart regarding the current
Coronavirus Pandemic, as we're about to reach the critical
midway point of the current 14-day "self-quarantine" period to
help blunt the exponential spread of this highly-contagious virus.
I firmly believe that the best way for us to overcome this crisis is
through unity, empathy and sacrifice...not fear and panic.
And while we each practice the protective measures of "social
distancing" among others, I know that right now is the time for
us to come together as a First Liberty family. Even if we can't
do so physically, we can unite in other ways, including spiritually.
Over these past few days, we've been reaching out to you and
many of our supporters to offer our prayers and support. Our entire
staff prayed for you this Monday in our staff meeting. Our concern for
you and your family is foremost in our hearts. You've stood firm
with us through the years, and we want you to know how grateful we are
for your generosity and support through our toughest battles. You can
be sure that we will stand with you and your family.
I also want to take this opportunity to share with you some
encouraging news about efforts happening among our local faith
communities.
For starters, we recently released Guidelines for Churches and Religious
Institutions to help during this crucial time. I urge you to download this
helpful information and share it with your local church or house of
worship. It offers timely insight on how we can make sure that religious
liberty continues to be respected, so that Americans like you can keep
worshipping and living out your faith as our Constitution intended.
Download Guidelines for Churches and Religious Institutions at
[link removed]
Additionally, I want to share some great examples of community
outreach efforts happening at churches across the country. Perhaps
they may inspire you, especially if you're looking to do similar
outreach in your own hometown:
* Setting up a drive-thru on church campuses to distribute free
food and hand-sanitizer (made by the church) to families in
need.
* Conduct a board game drive, to sanitize and distribute games to
local nursing homes.
* Have children write cards that can be sterilized and delivered
to local hospitals and nursing homes.
* A prayer and counseling hotline that can bless, encourage and
support those who are fearful or depressed.
* Local community centers opening their doors so that people can
shower, do laundry and use the Internet to communicate with
loved ones.
* Ordering pizza or picking up groceries for elderly neighbors or
family who are stuck at home, or simply making a phone call to
see how they're doing.
* Develop a program for first responders and health care workers
that delivers cookies, cards and other items to show our
appreciation and gratitude.
* Gather groups to go and donate blood, or even setting up a
community or work drive for blood donations...a huge need right
now.
You get the idea. And the list of ideas goes on and on. But the key
thing I want you to know is that we have a real opportunity to show
others that God is in control, and that He loves us, and through us,
He will meet their needs.
Right now, our pastors, churches and houses of worship are coming
under a lot of pressure. Now is the time to stand strong together.
This is one of the reasons why we fight for religious freedom; so, in
times like these, our religious institutions and houses of worship can
shine and serve. At a time when some are hoarding and looking inward,
these churches and religious groups are reaching out, serving others.
That's why I want to encourage you to reach out to us here at
First Liberty. We are a resource for you and your families, whether
it's for prayer or further guidance on issues affecting your
church.
We are here to support you.
With God's grace...nothing is impossible. I see great things
ahead, even a country that's stronger, more unified and has been
reminded of its roots in faith and service.
So, let's be the light...and go All In.
Gratefully,
Kelly
Kelly Shackelford, Esq.
President, CEO & Chief Counsel
First Liberty Institute
GIVE
[link removed]
Join Us on Facebook
[link removed]
Join Us on Instagram
[link removed]
Follow Us on Twitter
[link removed]
Watch Us on YouTube
[link removed]
Join Us on LinkedIn
[link removed]
Follow Us on SoundCloud
[link removed]
Sent by First Liberty Institute
[email protected]
2001 W. Plano Parkway, Suite 1600 * Plano, TX 75075 *
972-941-4444
View Online
[link removed]
Donate
[link removed]
Email Preference
[link removed]
Privacy Policy
[link removed]
Powered By Blackbaud
[link removed]
© 2020
First Liberty Institute