I have been genuinely impressed to see the pastors of churches from across the Southern Baptist Convention creatively adapting to the constantly changing COVID-19 situation. As new information becomes available, leaders at all levels of government have been adjusting their responses to the spread of the virus and asking all organizations in our nation to adapt.
For churches, the largest change has been the request that gatherings be limited to no more than ten people. That has troubled a lot of people I know and yet for the time being appears to be the right thing to do. The purpose of this post is not to debate the actions of our government officials. Rather, here I would like to make some observations and offer thoughts on several things I believe will be essential and likely changed in local churches for the foreseeable future.
Online Communication
Many, if not most churches these days have at least a basic website for finding general information about the church. Things like the physical address and phone number, service times, upcoming events, etc. Now more than ever, it is important to ensure the information on your website is current and the hyperlinks function correctly.
Many churches have also embraced social media and have a presence on at least one social media platform though that is certainly not universally true. Social media done well has regular, engaging posts that help connect people with the church. Ensuring someone monitors messaging functions to respond to questions, prayer requests, etc. is important as well.
During the COVID-19 outbreak, churches seem to have a heightened recognition of the power of these tools, especially video, in quickly communicating changes to upcoming events and worship services. For example, I am seeing pastors going live on Facebook to encourage their congregations. For many this is the first time they have done so! The circumstances surrounding this are not good but the shift is welcome and I think will persist once this current crisis has passed.
Connecting Groups Remotely
What to do with groups ministries that are unable to meet? If we have to take our worship services online, why not try groups online as well. That is exactly what is happening. A lot of folks are sharing what they are trying to do in this area which is super helpful for others still considering their options but have not yet tried anything.
Zoom, Facebook live in groups, Skype, and other tools are options I am seeing. Regardless of the tool, the important thing is to encourage group leaders to stay in contact with their class/group during this time when we cannot gather together. There will be needs, particularly among the seniors in our congregations, that will be missed if we do not use these and other tools to stay in touch.
The number of seniors in the US using Facebook is about 50% these days so don’t assume that these kinds of tools will not work just because of the age group in question. Also, don’t neglect a good old-fashioned telephone call to the folks on your class roll! However churches go about it, there is an increased recognition to maintain some sort of continuity with small groups during this disruptive time.
Giving Electronically
Sooner or later, someone had to mention giving as this crisis unfolded. I am glad to say that is appears our leaders have largely chosen to address this sooner. If a church is going to be able to continue to minister in their communities during this crisis, whatever that ministry may look like, it is going to continue to require the funds to do so.
Many churches, mine included, have offered the ability to give electronically for years now. Where I serve, people can give through our website, through our mobile app, and we even offer text-to-give. Still, most people here give the same way they always have, by writing a check. I can’t say this with certainty but I suspect that is true in most churches.
Other churches have no electronic giving capabilities. It has been good to see free webinars coming online so quickly to help churches in this area. There are a number of ways for churches to set up online giving. A good option is Generosity by Lifeway which offers a basic with no monthly cost (transaction fees do apply). I am glad to see this focus on making giving to Kingdom work as easy as possible.
I am sure there will be some other really innovative, creative approaches to the challenges churches are facing during this crisis. What an amazing ministry opportunity for us!! What are some creative things you’re seeing churches do to stay connected and minister to the body and in the community?
Blessings,
Chris