The video below is part of the message I delivered to the congregation on Wednesday Night. The message contains updates about the happenings of our congregation, but it also includes five points to consider on not giving up.
Since March 2020, many congregations have been dealing with the effects of the Coronavirus or COVID-19. It has been challenging for eldership to make the proper decisions relating to meeting or not meeting. Some congregations continued to meet, others went to an online or virtual service, and some went to parking lot services using an FM transmitter.
Each congregation chose the means necessary for the physical safety of their membership. The decisions were challenging. I know of elderships who stressed over the decisions and still do this day. The decisions were met with prayer for the proper decision and the effects it might have on the congregation.
While the elders were making tough decisions, the members were trying to decide how to keep in touch with one another while still maintaining the social distancing guidelines. Each state had their own social distancing guidelines and the federal government was busy adding suggestions. The guidelines meant smaller groups for some congregations and closed doors for others.
As our congregation has used virtual meetings and we also met back when able, However, because of an increase in local cases, along with members coming into contact with those effected by the Coronavirus/COVID-19, our elders have canceled our in-person meetings and go to an online, all-virtual format.
In these uncertain times, allow me a moment to share with you a few reminders:
- The early church struggled through various physical persecutions and made it. We can make it through this too.
- The church, throughout generations, has been met with great difficulties, yet it continues to grow and meet.
- The church building is a building and it will be there when we get back to normal meeting times.
- The members of the church should use technology to keep up with one another during this time.
- It is important to maintain your Sunday and Wednesday routine to take advantage of online services.
- Spend time in prayer daily.
- Technology is a useful tool which can be used by members of the to continue to encourage and "fellowship."
