The Silverdale Baptist Church leadership team has decided to cancel weekend services and on-campus events for the next few weeks.

Pastor Tony Walliser sent this message to the congregation: 

'The past 24 hours have been filled with new information about COVID-19, which has led to school closings, canceled events, and an unprecedented response.

"God has blessed Silverdale Baptist Church beyond measure, allowing us to be the largest church in our region. With that reality comes great responsibility. Since the attendance of most of our worship gatherings is over 250, our leadership team has decided to cancel weekend services and on-campus events for the next few weeks.

"Canceling these services was a tough decision for us. Still, we have been guided by two principles: (1) honoring our governing officials, who have urged extreme caution, and (2) loving our neighbors, many of whom, like the elderly or those with prior medical conditions, are particularly vulnerable to COVID-19.

"Now…some really good news. Because of God's abundant blessings, we are in a great position to be able to continue sharing our worship service with our Silverdale family and everyone else via our website. Our worship and tech teams are in the process of preparing a service that will be streamed this weekend.  You will find the link on the front page of our website, silverdalebc.com. You can also go to it directly at silverdalebc.com/live. We encourage you to share this experience with your families and neighbors.

"Please know that even though we are not meeting together for weekend worship services, the ministry of Silverdale continues. Our Pastors and entire staff stand ready to help, assist, and counsel. If your small group meets off-campus, please continue to meet and do life together. Also, if any of our elderly don't feel comfortable venturing out, we will be glad to bring you what you need.

"Not meeting for weekend services will most likely create a financial hardship for our church. Many of you already take advantage of online giving.  If not, please consider giving online. You may also choose to drop your gifts off by the church office.

"Thank you for being such an amazing church. God is still all the things we declare Him to be. He is Sovereign over all, all-powerful, all-knowing, and always loving. He has this! And He has you. So, let us walk forward in faith and great joy.

"I love you!"