Years ago there were churches that posted on the signs around their campuses “Such and such a church meets in these buildings,” signifying, of course, that the church isn’t a building but a people. In this time of the Pandemic, I think that perspective really does identify who we are as a people. In some ways, I believe our pastoral care efforts have been heightened. Deacons and staff members are touching base with our membership on a regular basis. In addition, Sunday School classes are having classes and fellowships in a virtual format, allowing for more personal exchanges. What’s more, we are having to re-think strategies for worship and missions. Creativity is being pressed in the worship area as well as on the mission front. Small gestures are carrying significant meaning. In a somewhat eschatological way, we are now having to consider the future in ways that we haven’t in a long time – the future of our country, our church, our families. What part does God play in all of this? It is a difficult time for many, but for the church it just might be a time when, like the desert fathers and mothers in times past, we have an opportune occasion to be alone with God.
Mike Massar