Let's be real. We are living in a moment none of us could have anticipated a couple of weeks ago. An enormous amount has changed in all of our daily lives, and as far as I can tell, we should be prepared for this new reality to be with us for quite a while. None of us can do this alone. The hour-by-hour life-changing developments: they are just too much. So let's be in it together. This week the Haven leadership has been expeditiously working to put together new ways of doing community, all of which are virtual. Take a look at all of what we're doing and working on now, and please join us for all that can help you feel connected and know that you are cared for in such a difficult time.
Virtual Sunday Services: Now WEEKLY
In this new rhythm of virtual only gatherings, we will move to having some kind of service every week. Some will include a sermon; some will be more conversational. Each will give folks an opportunity for spiritual encouragement and connection. Get the info here.
Weekly Virtual Sunday Kids Class
Grownups aren't the only ones who need connection in an uncertain time. After our main Sunday service each week, Connections Pastor Jeanne Wong will also host a 30 minute Haven Kids class. Info you need to join is here.
Intercessory Prayer Gatherings: Every Thursday Night
We could all use more prayer these days. Join Connie Barker and others each Thursday night to pray for one another and the world around us. Info here.
Virtual Community Groups Coming
We are in the process of converting all of our groups to virtual groups. If you are in a small group, or meal group, your facilitator will reach out to coordinate. If you're not in one and would like to be, contact Leah.
For Day to Day Communication: Slack
We have recently started using Slack for day-to-day communication. If you've signed up, we encourage you to check it regularly to stay up-to-date. If you'd like to be added to our Slack, contact Jeanne.
Creating A Community Directory
During our community conversation last Sunday, folks were hoping we could create a Haven directory, so folks in Haven can reach out to one another with phone calls, texts, letters through the mail, and so on. Fill out this form and let us know what to include in the directory.
Videos on YouTube
Haven has now started a YouTube channel where we are now uploading musical videos and other hopefully encouraging content. We will also broadcast a livestream of our Sunday services here for those who may not want to participate in them through Zoom. Check it out and subscribe to be regularly notified of new content.
Financial Giving to Haven
While our operations have changed, Haven still relies on financial support to manage our changing operations, as well as to support the financial needs in our community that are arising as a result of the pandemic. We encourage all who are able to give to do so online or by sending your checks (made out to Haven Berkeley) through the mail to our treasurer Don Wong (5251 Carriage Dr., Richmond, CA 94803). And if you have a financial need that our community can support you with in this time, please let Leah know.
Rapid Response Team
In this coronavirus season, we will be focusing our efforts at serving away from in-person service opportunities, to more virtual ones. Our Haven Rapid Response Team is available to do grocery runs, pick up prescriptions, check on folks through letters, phone calls, emails, and more. If you would like to serve on this team, fill out this form. And if you have a need you could use help with, let us know here.
Virtual Pastoral Office Hours
In an effort to provide pastoral care in a timely manner to all who could use support at this time, Leah has created this signup sheet for "virtual office hours". Would you appreciate a time to process and/or pray with Leah through Zoom, FaceTime, on the phone, or through another virtual medium? Sign up for a half-hour slot and Leah would be honored to support you in whatever way you need.