As of this writing (Wednesday afternoon, March 19, 2020), here at AIIA’s Study Center in north central Maine, we’re still feeling somewhat removed from the vortex of the COVID-19 pandemic that rages across the nation and around the world.
We realize that local developments might change tomorrow. So even at this point we’re resolved to do our part by participating in the great battle to deter the further spread of this virus, and to rise to the challenges that are bound to result from the longer-term secondary effects of this crisis.
In that regard, and in an effort to comply with current CDC and governmental guidelines, we have canceled all AIIA-related public events through at least April 30. This includes FAITH MATTERS on April 4. Please consult the events calendar on our website for developing information on other future events.
The Study Center will also be closed, except by appointment, through April 30. We will continue to be working at the Study Center most days and would welcome your call to 207.997.3644 to arrange terms for a personal visit inside.
We will continue to publish and mail the PROCLAMATION. We will continue to take calls and respond to email. And we will otherwise proceed with most all other aspects of our normal work and routine that do not entail direct contact with others.
We hope that by May circumstances will allow for the beginning of a fairly normal Appalachian Trail hiking season and, if so, we plan to be outside once again, exchanging with both hikers and the art students participating in local art workshops and residencies.
Meanwhile, we are most grateful to God for friends like you who are willing to continue to support our work financially, and in prayer, during this trying time.
For those of you who have expressed concern — yes, Andrew & Maureen and the children arrived safely back in the United State on Monday, March 16. After self-quarantining for two weeks, they plan to resume their normal routines in Harrisonburg VA.
These are, at least within our lifetimes, unprecedented developments. But we must not doubt in the dark what we’ve known to be true in the light. We must rather stubbornly stand firm when the ground all around us is shaking.
“For the Lord is good; his steadfast love endures forever, and his faithfulness to all generations.” Psalm 100:5, ESV
