|
-----------------------------------------------------------
Other recent
articles about Coronavirus & the Church:
* Coronavirus & the Church, Part 1
(03/27/20): Be the Church, Now More Than Ever!
* Coronavirus & the Church, Part 2 (04/03/20): Churches Eligible for Forgivable Loans from U.S.
Gov to Make Payroll
-----------------------------------------------------------
We have heard many reports in recent weeks about the
frightening symptoms and rising death toll of Covid-19. We have also heard many alarming reports about the great toll this is having on our economy. However, as a Christian leader and a professional
counselor, I want to highlight another distressing aspect of this pandemic: the spiritual and social consequences of prolonged social distancing.
Political leaders and medical experts tell us social distancing
is one of the most important things we must do to stop the spread of this lethal virus. Most of us have adjusted to this by staying at home and keeping our distance from others. As a Christian
leader, we have practiced and encouraged others to follow the federal and state guidelines.
|
 |
In almost all of our churches, our worship services are closed and our small group meetings have been canceled. Our congregations, which thrive on fellowship
and personal interaction, have been plunged into isolation.
Fellowship, Interaction Are Essential
God designed people to interact with each other and to have
physical contact with each other. Many people may be suffering due to social isolation. As pastors, we are making valiant efforts to connect with and encourage each other through social media. But of
course, that is not the same thing as fellowshiping face to face. Many pastors have remained busy learning new technologies that make it possible for church members to connect to us. However, many
older people do not have the knowledge or resources to do so.
During this time of isolation, I urge pastors and
church leaders to be mindful of the spiritual, social, and psychological damages of social distancing -- for themselves as well as their members. Many of our pastors are finally adjusting after first
feeling as if they were disconnected to their members due to this virus. Churches and ministries must be knowledgeable and proactive about responding to these needs.
One pastor told me they have been calling their
members regularly, while other churches have involved their staff or board members to connect with all members of the church, during this time that our churches are not meeting. Others are involving
departments to send out cards, pictures, text messages, or Facebook with members to encourage them from feeling socially alienated. All of these are important to consider, along with any social media
you are using.
The Scriptures are clear that fellowship is an
essential component of the Christian life. When we go to church, we come together not only to worship our Savior and listen to the Word of God, but to interact with our Christian brothers and
sisters. Take away Christian fellowship, and many believers will be tempted to drift away from a life of faith. We hope that you will consider that even though we are apart, we can still stay
connected and keep encouraging one another to avoid social isolation.
Please realize: The local church may be
the only significant social connection that many of our church members have.
In addition, our marriage and parenting routines
have been turned upside down. Many parents are trying to work at home or dealing with the stress of unemployment. Children are home when they are normally in school. Family relationships are
being put to the test, and in some cases, the result is bickering and frustration.
During this time, our people need us more than
ever. Ironically, at the same time it has become a huge adjustment to think about how to minister to our flocks. But that just means we need to be more committed and creative than ever about staying
connected with our people and encouraging and facilitating them to connect with each other.
Our God has always been a God of miracles. He
will provide miraculous ways for us to fulfill our calling, and He will bless our efforts to do so, even in these hard times, if we lean on Him.
What The Future
Holds
As I am pouring out my heart, let me encourage
you to not be overwhelmed with concern for our nation, our families, our ministries, our economy, and our future. God has everything in control. Believe that great things are in store for the church!
But at the same time, in the midst of all the adjustments and changes, please don’t overlook the spiritual, social, and psychological needs that many of your people are going through right
now.
On a positive note, absence makes the heart grow
fonder. When this virus is finally under control and we return to gathering together in person, I predict that people will be more faithful about attending church than they were before. We all look
forward to the return of those days.
Pastor, You Are Not Alone
I am confident that God knew beforehand that this
virus was coming. I know God is working during these difficult times to reach the lost and to make His Church shine. I pray that your church and your ministries are shining more brightly than ever
right now.
Again, let me say that I believe this can and
will be the greatest time for your church. I applaud you for following your calling, even during difficult days. We great appreciate all that you do for the Kingdom of God!
Pastor, I want you to know that we pray for you every day. Pastoral Care Inc. is here for you. Call or email us if we can help you in any way (918-758-4147; jfuller@pastoralcareinc.org).
|
Print 