Staying connected during a pandemic

Early in the pandemic most churches stopped meeting in person. Many went to some form of online worship service through social media or their website. Many felt frustrated they could not gather in person but understood it was probably for the best in order to slow the spread of the virus. Pastors were frustrated they could not be with members of their congregation during times of need such as hospitalizations or deaths in the family.

Although many churches have opened, some people are still choosing to not attend services in person due to chronic health conditions or other reasons. Pastors still feel limitations of providing pastoral care to their congregations. Since things are unlikely to return to the previous normal for some time, if ever, we must find ways to stay connected.

I recently preached in a church that was offering communion. Rather than pass out the bread and cups as usual in our tradition, the church purchased the single communion cups with the juice and wafer in one container. These were placed on an outside table and everyone was asked to pick one up when they entered the building. As I began my message I reminded them of the new way, for this church, we were going to observe the Lord's Supper that day. I then addressed those who might be watching the service on social media to get them a drink and a cracker or something and be ready to participate in the Lord's Supper with us when the time came. This was one way they could stay connected to their congregation even if they could not be physically present.

While home and hospital visits may not always be possible, it is possible to offer pastoral care by phone or through emails and texts. While these may not be the best options, for some of us they might be the only options for now. Any contact is better than no contact. It reminds people that the church cares, and it also serves as a reminder that God cares about them during this challenging time.

When I served as a bivocational pastor a deacon and I took communion to the church shut-ins each quarter. One home had an elderly couple who were not able to get out except for doctor visits. One Sunday afternoon she said that they appreciated us bringing Communion to them but wondered why we did it. I responded that when I read the old church records I found their names on just about every page. It was because of people like them that the church was there for us today. Bringing them Communion was one way of saying thank you to them and a way for them to stay connected to the church they served for many years.

At this time, such ministry might not be possible, but we still must find ways to remind people they are still a part of our church family even if they can't attend services in person. These saints are precious in God's sight, and they should be precious in our sights as well. 

We will get through this challenging time. Let's just make sure we all get through it together.