One month ago our nation began taking progressive steps that increased social (physical) distancing to lessen the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. We are finding ourselves in a whole new world, with uncertainty about what the “new normal” will be. Like other major shifts, we can either lament the days behind us, or embrace the opportunities we have at hand.
What are some opportunities that you may have at hand that you might not have considered before? Here are some things that ministry leaders are doing to embrace the current opportunities:
Digital Worship – For those who were not already offering a digital worship experience, the stay-at-home orders prohibiting people from gathering together in houses of worship accelerated the implementation of offering Sunday worship online. Live and recorded worship experiences quickly became a necessity, not just a nice add on.
Neighborhood Response Teams – People have had touch with their actual neighbors in ways they haven’t before. Some have organized neighborhood response teams to assist with essential errands for those who are highly vulnerable.
Neighborhood check-in calls – one pastor I know invited his neighbors to a community conference call once each week where they share how they are doing personally, let each other know if they might need assistance, they share prayer requests, and before they close the call, he shares a devotion and they pray.
Sunday School Care Packets – some churches are packaging Sunday School lessons for the children and sending them by mail to remind the children they are loved.
Neighborhood Easter worship – Some pastors have invited their neighbors to the end of their driveways on Easter (where everyone can maintain a safe physical distance) to share God’s words of encouragement. Some neighbors expressed that they would like to do this again.
Sharing Musical Gifts – People with musical gifts have set up sound systems in their driveways to provide a live concert for their neighbors.
Online Bible Study – Churches are reimagining how to offer the in-person gatherings online. Bible studies are being held by conference call and Zoom.
Online Retreat – It’s surely not the same, however an online video option is better than no option.
Pen Pals – Some churches have engaged the children in sending cards and making phone calls to older people who can’t get out. Our older population has lived through other difficult seasons in their lives and have wisdom to share!
Story Time – Many people are reading stories to their nieces, nephews and grandchildren over video platforms. This is a wonderful way to share Bible stories with the little ones and give mommy and daddy a break! This could also be a great activity for older folks to share with the little ones in their churches.
Food Collections for the Hungry – While maintaining good social distancing practices, some have organized food collections for families in need then sorted, sanitized, packaged and delivered onto doorsteps.
I’d love to hear the ways you are stepping into the opportunities to care for the people around you!
Please add your stories to the comments or send them to hello@faithfulinnovation.com
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